Barton meets Marseille management to discuss move

MARSEILLE, France (AP) -Midfielder Joey Barton moved closer to joining Marseille after undergoing the first part of his medical examination.

Barton announced on his Twitter page on Wednesday evening that he has finished the first part of the process and will be back "to finish it off'' on Thursday. Barton added that he would like "to thank all the fans at the training ground for being patient and really friendly when we met.''

Several other British players have played for Marseille over the years, including fan favorite Chris Waddle, midfielder Trevor Steven, and more recently defender Tyrone Mears.

French media reports say that Barton will join Marseille on loan for the season, with QPR and Marseille each agreeing to pay half of his wages.

Earlier on Wednesday, Barton met with the Marseille coach and president on Wednesday to discuss a potential transfer.

The French club posted a video on its website showing Barton arriving at the club's training ground along with his agent and meeting with coach Elie Baup and President Vincent Labrune.

Barton has said on his Twitter page that he wants to leave Queens Park Rangers to join Marseille.

QPR stripped Barton of the captaincy for his violent conduct against Manchester City players in the final round of the Premier League last season.

Barton was banned for 12 matches by the English Football Association for elbowing Carlos Tevez, kicking Sergio Aguero and trying to head-butt Vincent Kompany.