MUNICH, May 30 (SW) - American international Greg Berhalter has signed with German second division side 1860 Munich on a free transfer.

The 32-year-old Berhalter had been with second division Energie Cottbus since 2002, skippering the eastern German club this past season to a third-place finish and promotion to the Bundesliga.

"We are convinced that he represents a significant reinforcement for our defense," 1860 manager Stefan Reuter said.

Last week, Berhalter was named to the U.S. World Cup squad by coach Bruce Arena after first-choice defender Cory Gibbs injured a knee.

Berhalter's contract at 1860 Munich, Bayern Munich’s city rivals, runs through June 30, 2008.

The club, who share the Allianz Arena with their rivals, finished 13th in the German second division this past season, just one point clear of relegation.