The Turkish club this morning claimed they had completed an 18-month deal for the 31-year-old Australia international, who only joined the Toffees last September.

That may have been premature but Neill admits will be a Galatasaray player next week.

Neill told Sky Sports News: "I think I'll be joining up and I'm looking forward to joining my new team-mates on Sunday.

"I'm now delighted I'll be joining a massive European club with great ambitions for the season.

"It'll be a wonderful new challenge for me. I'm absolutely delighted a club like Galatasaray will be my next team."

Neill arrived at Goodison Park as a free agent following the expiry of his contract with West Ham at the end of last season.

Galatasaray are thought to have tabled a bid in the region of £750,000 and Everton, despite numerous defensive injuries this season, appear to have considered the deal good business.

Neill, who has made 12 league and two cup appearances for David Moyes' side, admits the move has come as a surprise.

"I was very shocked," he said. "I didn't instigate any kind of move from Everton but once I found out the two clubs were in negotiations it became clear I had to look after myself and my family."

Neill was keen to stress he was leaving Everton on good terms.

He added: "I've loved it from the moment I got there. The club have been so welcoming and the guys in the changing room have been amazing.

"To everybody at Everton, I'll thank every single one of them. My time there has been magnificent and I'll wish them the very best for the season.

"There is no ill feeling whatsoever and let's hope Everton have a fantastic second half of the season."

Neill will team up with fellow Australian Harry Kewell, formerly of Liverpool, when he arrives in Istanbul.

A statement on Gala's official website, www.galatasaray.org, read: "Galatasaray have signed Australia international Lucas Neill on a one-and-a-half-year deal from English Premier League side Everton."