Neuer not to renew Schalke contract

Manuel Neuer is one of the world's best goalkeepers and a sought after property by some of Europe's biggest clubs with especially FC Bayern Munich and Manchester United have shown serious interest in Germany's No.1 .

At a press conference in Gelsenkirchen earlier today Manuel Neuer under tears announced that he will not be renewing his current contract which runs until 2012 to try out something new in his career.

"I made my decision without any influence from the outside," said Neuer on the club website. "The decision had nothing to do with a coaching change or a person at some other club. I want to keep the possibility of change open after 20 years of being true to one club."

"The club have now informed me of the interest of Bayern, so it's possible that I could leave earlier, but that is a question for the club and I will not decide that alone.

"I want to make the next big step. I want to play regularly at the highest level. That's the Champions League."

Though Schalke is having a difficult domestic Bundesliga season, they are in the German Cup (DFB Pokal) final and face Manchester United in their first-ever appearance in the UEFA Champions League semifinal. They are a top Bundesliga side, but aren't amongst the best in Europe

"We accepted this decision with a heavy heart and we must respect it," said Schalke Director of Sports Horst Heldt and added, "What will happen now with Manuel will be decided in the coming weeks or months."

Meanwhile in Munich FC Bayern will have watched with interest. FC Bayern club president Uli Hoeness said, "We hope that he comes this year and if he doesn't come this year, he'll come next year."

And went on to say, "Where there's a will, there's a way. I think we're willing to make it happen, and if Schalke gets no transfer fee next year, then they will manoeuvre so that we can agree."