Joey Barton set for French move

QPR midfielder Joey Barton is set for a move to Marseille on a season long loan, with Stephane Mbia moving the other way, according to Sky Sports.

The controversial battler has been hit with a 12-match ban after his sending off against Manchester City on the last day of 2011-12.

As such Mark Hughes has been eyeing a switch for Barton, who has been training with Football League club Fleetwood Town.

However, it is emerged that Ligue 1 side Marseille are eager to bring the midfielder to the Stade Velodrome, with Barton set to spend a season across in France.

The Loftus Park club are eyeing a replacement, with Mbia ready to switch to the London club on a season-long basis also.

The Cameroon international is used as a central midfielder but can also play at centre-half if required.

By Gareth McKnight

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