THE AGENT of West Ham captain Lucas Neill insists a deal could yet be struck that will see the his client remain at Upton Park.

The defender's future has been thrown into doubt after it emerged that the Australia international had rejected the Hammers' offer of a new three year deal, thought to be worth £2million a year.

The Sun reported that super-rich Manchester City had moved into pole position to land Neill, 31. However, the player's agent Darren Jackson insisted there was still a chance that his client could stay in East London, although he admitted that there were plenty of other options on the table.

He told Sky Sports: “The last offer was declined because Lucas didn't feel it reflected his value as a player and captain. Negotiations have been amicable and we hope we can still reach an agreement.

He added: “The door remains open for West Ham and Lucas. Obviously the longer it goes on, the more likely it's not going to happen.

“There has been other interest from clubs in England and in Europe but it's still very early stages. Lucas is hopeful something can be agreed with West Ham.”

The Times reported that West Ham's initial offer to Neill was £500,000 more than what they intended to pay, as they attempt to trim their wage bill.

Neill became the club's top earner when he signed from Blackburn Rovers two years ago, raking in a whopping £70,000 a week.

The Hammers are also hoping to extend goalkeeper Robert Green's contract beyond the three years he has remaining, although the stopper was keen to increase his £28,000 a week wage, according to the Times. However, the 29-year-old is thought to have stopped pushing for a wage hike.