Arsenal keeper Lehmann on verge of return to Dortmund

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Despite claims that Bayern Munich were ready to move for him, a return to the Westfalenstadion looks a certainty for the 38-year-old after his old club set up talks that are expected to start at The Emirates today.

Dortmund reacted swiftly to the long-term injury absence of first choice keeper Roman Weidenfeller by despatching director of football Michael Zorc to London with instructions to secure Lehmann's release on a free transfer.

With the Germany keeper out of contract in the summer and out of favour under Arsene Wenger after only four appearances so far this season, the Bundesliga club were confident a deal could be agreed.

Claims that Lehmann was house hunting in Munich and about to replace his arch-enemy Oliver Kahn at Bayern were dispelled by sources close to him.

He is understood to be looking for property in the Munich area but only because he has decided to set up home there with his family once his playing days are over.

"I should know more in the next week, so I can make a decision about my future in the first few days of the New Year," he said. "I have listened to something but, at the moment, I can't say too much about it." His departure will increase the need for another keeper at The Emirates.

Aston Villa's Thomas Sorensen, Bolton's Jussi Jaaskelainen and Celtic's Artur Boruc have all come under scrutiny and Barnsley's £1million-rated Heinz Muller is also believed to be a target.

Lehmann joined Arsenal from Dortmund for an undisclosed fee in July 2003 and played a major part in League and Cup successes.

But after errors at the start of this season, he lost his place to Manuel Almunia and again deputised for the Spaniard at Portsmouth on Boxing Day.

Wenger criticised Pompey's "defensive" approach in the goalless draw, but counterpart Harry Redknapp hit back yesterday.

"Let's see how many other teams take points off Arsenal," said the Portsmouth boss. "I'm sure Everton (who host Arsenal tomorrow)would be happy to take a point off them, even with how they're playing."