Charlton ready to swoop for Barton

Charlton are set to make a move for Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton.

Alan Curbishley wants to bolster his squad after losing Claus Jensen to Fulham and is ready to spend £2million on the 21-year-old.

The Charlton manager has been impressed by Barton's all-action style and hopes he will be one of three new players expected to sign in the next two weeks.

Barton came through the ranks at City and is a fans' favourite but he has had his differences with manager Kevin Keegan and the club may have to accept a reasonable offer for him because of their heavy debts.

However, Liverpool could provide stiff competition for the midfielder's signature if they decide to replace Danny Murphy.

Paolo di Canio is due to hold talks with Charlton in the next 48 hours to discuss his future. The Italian striker has returned to Italy after being approached by Lazio and has said publicly he wants to leave for Rome.