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Barton set for Marseille move after medical

Joey Barton has no future at QPR © PA Photos

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Marseille coach Elie Baup has confirmed the club are close to agreeing a deal with Joey Barton, with the QPR midfielder undergoing a medical on Wednesday night.

Barton, 29, has been marginalised by the Rs after picking up a 12-match ban for his conduct on the final day of the 2011-12 season, and both the club and the player have been pursuing a possible transfer.

They now appear to have got their wish, with Marseille set to swoop for the former Newcastle and Manchester City man.

"Joey Barton is in the building. I don't know if it will be finalised today or how it will turn out," l'OM boss Baup said. "He is someone who all the world knows. He is an English box-to-box midfielder, he works hard on the pitch and can win the ball back well. He also uses the ball well.

"This is the type of player that allows a team to play at a high tempo and to quickly recover when they lose the ball. He has to be part of the project, respect the team rules and work in the greater interest of the team. He must comply with these standards.

"His career indicates that he knows that already. And a player of character is often necessary.''

Barton confirmed on Wednesday that the first part of his medical at the club had been successful, with a deal likely to be completed on Thurdsay.

He tweeted: "Just finished the 1st part of my medical at Marseille. It's great to finally be here. Back tomo to finish it off...

"I would also like to thank all the fans at the training ground for being patient and really friendly when we met. #AllezMarseille."

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