Lucas Neill is set to be reunited with Australia team-mate Harry Kewell at Galatasaray after the Turkish club announced they had signed the defender from Everton.
Neill, who only signed for Everton in September after leaving West Ham at the end of last season, confirmed that he was close to finalising a move to Istanbul.
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"I think I'll be joining up and I'm looking forward to joining my new team-mates on Sunday," the 31-year-old told Sky Sports News.
"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."
A statement posted on Galatasaray's website on Thursday said the defender had agreed an 18-month deal with the club. No fee was disclosed but Everton had been reported to be considering an offer of 750,000 pounds for the player.
Neill made 12 league and two cup appearances at Everton but did not feature in any European matches, which means he will able to play for his new employers in the Europa League.
He said the move had come out of the blue. "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 said he was leaving Everton on amicable terms.
"I've loved it from the moment I got there," he said. "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."
