Ferguson explains Barthez move
Barthez has found himself out-of-favour at Old Trafford this season with Tim Howard established as number one and Roy Carroll his back-up.
Ferguson has given Barthez the go ahead to seek first team football elsewhere and expects a loan deal until the end of the season to be sorted soon.
"He's going to speak to Marseille," said Ferguson. "They approached us a couple of days ago and there are one or two things to be ironed out.
"The reason I'm happy to let the move go through is that it leaves me with two experienced keepers (Howard and Carroll)."
Ferguson accepts Barthez needs first team football and he paid tribute to the Frenchman.
"In fairness to Fabien the longer he's going to be here without getting a game there is going to be a problem for him," added Ferguson.
"He's a terrific goalkeeper, one of the best in the world, but just by opportunity Tim Howard has taken the number one jersey.
"Roy Carroll has done nothing wrong either so I'm being fair to everyone."
Marseille, who are looking for Barthez to provide cover for the injured Cedric Carrasso, will need to have the move ratified by Fifa as it is outside the transfer window.
