QPR 'step up' offers for Joey Barton, Scott Parker

Queens Park Rangers are edging closer to signing Joey Barton and Scott Parker, according to the Daily Mail.

Newcastle winger Barton, 28, was made available on a free transfer at the start of the month amid a public Twitter row with the club's board.

QPR manager Neil Warnock has also increased his bid for West Ham captain Scott Parker, 30, from £4m to £5m in an effort to secure his services. Hammers co-owner David Sullivan branded their previous offer "ridiculous" and "a cheap publicity stunt".

New QPR owner Tony Fernandes has given the greenlight to Warnock to make several key signings for the club in the next week.