Nottingham Forest have emerged as the new favourites to snap up free agent Joey Barton.
The Championship outfit, who can only sign loan players or free agents due to their transfer embargo, are reportedly close to sealing a deal for the former Queens Park Rangers midfielder.
The 32-year-old, who earned one international cap for England, scored once in 28 appearances in all competitions for Chris Ramsey’s side last season as QPR suffered relegation from the Premier League.
It is understood that Barton has already met Forest manager Dougie Freedman earlier this month to discuss a potential move to the City Ground after his imminent transfer to West Ham United collapsed at the last minute.