Toffees consider Neill bid

Neill: Galatasaray target

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Everton have confirmed they are considering a £750,000 bid for defender Lucas Neill from Galatasaray.

The 31-year-old signed a one-year deal with the Toffees in September after becoming a free agent following the end of his contract with West Ham.

The Australia international has gone on to make 15 appearances this season for David Moyes' men but none of them have been in Europe as he was signed too late to be registered for Everton's Europa League group campaign.

Neill is therefore eligible to play in the knock-out stage for Galatasaray, who have been drawn against Atletico Madrid in the last 32, while Everton face Sporting Lisbon.

The ex-Millwall and Blackburn man would also have the opportunity to link up with international team-mate Harry Kewell at the Turkish outfit.

Neill admitted to being taken aback by the bid and accepts that he will have to decide where his future lies.

"This has come as a surprise to me as I am enjoying my football at Everton and the form the club is currently in," Neill told Sky Sports News.

"However it looks like I may have a big decision to make in the near future. "

Neill's agent, Darren Jackson, admits the two clubs are in talks, but a deal is far from being done.

"I understand the two clubs are speaking - but nothing has been finalised yet," said Jackson.

Donovan delight

Neill's last game for Everton could be last weekend's 2-2 draw at Arsenal, when forward Landon Donovan made his debut after his loan move from LA Galaxy.

The United States international was thrilled by the reception he received from the 4,000 travelling fans and is relishing his home bow against Manchester City on Saturday.

"It was awesome," he said. "From day one everyone has been very welcoming.

"When you have that support it certainly helps you on the field so I look forward to playing at Goodison Park.

"I am hoping I get my home debut this weekend. Sitting in the stands at the cup tie against Carlisle the week before made me really want to play.

"Hearing how the fans respond and seeing their passion, I loved that. You want to play for them and show them something.

"It is a big game against City and they are a team that are playing very well, but we are playing well too so it will be an exciting match."