Joey Barton set for West Ham medical as ex-Man City and Newcastle man edges close to move

Joey Barton has been looking for a club ever since his release from QPR at the end of last season

JOEY BARTON will have a medical at West Ham ahead of a proposed move to the club, according to reports.

Sky Sports claim the 32-year-old has already met Hammers boss Slaven Bilic and carried out fitness to tests to prove he is ready for the current season.
Barton was one of six players released by QPR following their relegation from the Premier League last term and has been on the hunt for a new club ever since.

The former Manchester City and Newcastle midfielder has been working for various TV and radio networks following his release.
And he even joked he was the best player at the ground when working on Saturday's Premier League opener between Bournemouth and Aston Villa.

The one-cap former England international has been busy in pre-season as he attempts to stay fit.
Through various posts on social media, Barton has been seen putting himself through the paces on an exercise bike and filling up on protein-filled breakfasts.

If everything goes to plan, reports suggest he could complete the formalities of his move to West Ham by Tuesday.
Marseille were also believed to be interested in bringing him back to the club where he spent the 2012-13 season on loan.
Lorient were understood to be weighing up a French reunion, while Leeds have also been linked with a move.