Transfer Centre

Queens Park Rangers' Joey Barton reiterates Marseille desire

By Danielle Joynson, Staff Reporter | 01 August 2013

Joey Barton insists that he wants to sign for Marseille on a permanent transfer following reports that he is keen to join Everton from Queens Park Rangers.

Queens Park Rangers midfielder Joey Barton has reiterated that he wants to continue playing for Marseille following a loan stint in France.

The 30-year-old helped Marseille finish second in Ligue 1 behind champions Paris Saint-Germain last season following then-manager Mark Hughes's decision to loan out the midfielder after he received a 12-match ban for violent conduct.

This week it emerged that Barton's agent has approached the player's boyhood club Everton over possibly signing him during this summer's transfer window.

Despite the reports, Barton has attempted to clarify the situation by writing on Twitter: "Recent rumours are slightly wide of the mark, everyone knows where I would like to end up, in France.

"Playing in the Champions League for Olympique Marseille, nothing has changed my end. If not, I am contracted to QPR and will give my all to help them regain their Premier League status.

"If, something happens and both clubs decide differently than I will assess my options. No matter what happens, I intend to enjoy my football and play with a smile on my face. Again, wherever that maybe. Careers are too short."

Reports have claimed that Barton, who is said to be currently earning £70,000 a week, would be willing to take a pay cut to join Everton.