Tuesday, 15th January, 2013
Marseille sporting director Jose Anigo is hopeful that the French giants can reach an agreement with QPR to keep Joey Barton at the Stade Velodrome.
Barton is on a season-long loan at Marseille and has impressed team-mates and staff alike with his dedication to the cause.
The 30-year-old has so far shrugged off the controversy which dogged him in English football and resulted in him landing at Marseille during the summer carrying a 12-match ban, which kept him out of Ligue 1 action until November.
Barton wants to remain at Marseille, but while Anigo admits they would like to keep him, no agreement has been reached as yet.
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"We have a very good relationship with QPR and it could be possible to extend the loan", Anigo told RTL.
"He likes Marseille, he loves this city, which breathes football.
"We haven’t started talks with QPR, but he is a boy we’re attached to and want to keep – but there is no certainty.
"Joey is with us and his behaviour has been good."
Barton has managed to make eight appearances in Ligue 1 for Marseille this season, while he has also featured for the club in the Europa League.
Were he to join Marseille on a more permanent basis, he would likely have to take a wage cut to fit into the French side’s budget.
Barton could also see his loan extended as an alternative, to keep him in France.
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