Cameroonian international midfielder Stéphane Mbia is on the brink of a move to the English Premier League club, Queens Park Rangers (QPR), signaling a change of scenery from Marseille. In advanced talks, the Marseille player is expected to join QPR for a three-year period, with the transfer fee set at 7 million euros. Despite interest from the Turkish club Fenerbahçe, Mbia seems inclined towards the English club.
Expressing his eagerness for the new challenge and higher aspirations, Mbia stated, “I chose Queens Park Rangers despite a last-minute push from Fenerbahçe. It’s a new challenge to take on. I want to go higher and higher. I am joining this championship excited but cautious. I’m going to discover another world.” The move comes amid a delicate financial context for Marseille, and Mbia acknowledged that his departure is part of the club’s strategy to sell high-salary players. He emphasized that the decision lies with the club, and he wants Marseille to benefit.
While an agreement between the two clubs is pending, Mbia hinted at a potential player exchange, with QPR’s Joey Barton moving in the opposite direction. The former Rennes player joined Olympique de Marseille three seasons ago, contributing to their successes in the French championship (2010), league cup (2010, 2011, 2012), and the Champions Trophy (2011).