The 34-year-old's current deal expires in June and Frings, reportedly one of Bremen's highest earners, told newspaper Kreiszeitung Syke that no fresh offer was forthcoming.

He said: "I have to accept that. It's a shame, I'd rather have left after a more successful season.

"It was not about the money. I had no offer to reject or accept, because there weren't any."

Frings' departure will end his second spell at the club he rejoined six years ago after having left in 2002 for Borussia Dortmund. He moved to Bayern Munich in 2004, helping the Bavarians win the Bundesliga title in 2004/05.

He also won 79 caps for Germany and appeared in the 2002 and 2006 World Cups.

Bremen finished the Bundesliga season in 13th spot after going down 3-2 at Kaiserslautern on Saturday.