The 20-year-old Podolski ended months of speculation by signing a four-year contract at Bayern after the club agreed a 10 million euro fee with relegated FC Cologne.

"I am glad that the transfer has finally gone through," said Podolski Friday. "I am relieved that I can now concentrate on the World Cup."

Podolski will spearhead the host's attack at the finals alongside another Polish-born foward Miroslav Klose.

Germany open the World Cup against Costa Rica in Munich on June 9 and team manager Oliver Bierhoff admitted it was a relief that Podolski was now fully focussed on the finals.

"It is important for a young player to know where he is playing ahead of a big tournament," said Bierhoff. "Lukas can now concentrate 100 percent on the World Cup."

Podolski has scored 12 goals in 24 internationals and has been touted as the next golden boy of German football since breaking onto the scene as an 18-year-old with Cologne.