The 30-year-old, who has two years remaining on his present contract, is in advanced discussions with the club over a new four-year deal.

Everton are hopeful of reaching an agreement with the Australia international before next month's World Cup in South Africa.

Cahill told evertontv: "The chairman knows my thoughts, I will sign here for life.

"He knows my thoughts on what I love about this club. I respect everyone so much and hopefully I am here for a long time."

Cahill has scored 56 goals in 201 games for Everton since his move from Millwall in 2004.

Reaching a new deal with Cahill would get manager David Moyes' summer off to a perfect start.

Moyes has made the re-signing of key players one of his top objectives and is also in negotiations with Steven Pienaar and Jack Rodwell.