Neville wraps up Everton move

David Moyes today completed the signing of Phil Neville in time for him to be eligible for Everton’s Champions League third-round qualifier against Villarreal next Tuesday.

Moyes believes the 28-year-old’s ability to play in a number of roles will be a crucial factor for the club as they prepare for campaigns at home and abroad.

The utility player has passed a medical and agreed a five-year deal after joining from Manchester United for “in excess of £3m (€4.3m)”.

Moyes describes Neville as a “professional’s professional” and is thrilled he has agreed to quit Old Trafford.

The manager told evertonfc.com: “We are absolutely delighted to have concluded a deal with a player of Phil Neville’s calibre and vast experience.

“We have staved off a great deal of competition to get him. Several clubs were interested in signing him but I must say from the first minute I spoke to him he only wanted to come and join Everton. His attitude throughout the entire negotiation process has been first-class.

“Primarily I se Phil as a holding midfield player but he is so versatile that he gives us not only much-needed cover but also several additional options. As everyone knows he is perfectly comfortable playing in the holding role or at either right or left back.

“Phil is a quality footballer who will, I feel certain, improve and enhance the squad we are putting together here at Everton. He is very much a professional’s professional and I am very happy to have signed him.”

Neville only signed a five-year deal with United in the summer of 2004 but his slim chances of first-team football have persuaded him to move on.

Moyes targeted the player to fill the hole left by the departure of Thomas Gravesen to Real Madrid last January.

Meanwhile Everton are “very optimistic” that influential midfielder Tim Cahill will sign a new long-term deal.

Talks have resumed between the club, who begin their Champions League campaign next week, and the player’s representatives.

Cahill, 26, was outstanding in his debut season after arriving from Millwall, scoring 12 goals in 38 appearances.

He is only 12 months into a three-year deal but discussions are now taking place about a new five-year contract.

Everton remains hopeful there will be a successful conclusion.

“Further talks have taken place between the club and Tim’s representatives,” said chief executive Keith Wyness. “These talks will continue and we remain very optimistic about the outcome.”