“With Ron we have found a goalkeeper who fits exactly in our profile,” Cologne managing director Horst Heldt said. “He brings the quality and the experience that we absolutely need at this position.”

Zieler, 31, will begin the campaign as back-up for Cologne number one Timo Horn.

“It is nice to be back,” said Zieler. “As the offer came, I didn’t have to think long about it.”

The Cologne-born Zieler was with the club as a youth before leaving to join the Manchester United youth academy. He won the 2014 World Cup with Germany as a back-up to Manuel Neuer but has fallen out of favour at Hanover, where he has a contract to 2023.

Cologne begin the Bundesliga at home to Hoffenheim when the season starts on the weekend of September 18.