Barthez signs l'OM deal

Marseille have completed the permanent signing of goalkeeper Fabien Barthez with the France number one penning a two-year deal.

The 32-year-old moved to Stade Velodrome on loan after losing his starting place at Manchester United to American keeper Tim Howard.

Barthez has been enjoying his return to France and recently agreed to have his contract cancelled at Old Trafford.

L'OM boss Jose Anigo has been keen to sign the former Monaco man ever since his arrival in the South of France.

Barthez has now agreed on a two-year contract with the Uefa Cup semi-finalists, and it will be a big boost to the squad in their preparations for the second leg against Newcastle.

Marseille president Christophe Bouchet was delighted Barthez will be keeping goal for his club until the summer of 2006.

"The decision had been taken a few weeks ago," Bouchet told the club website. "But we needed to iron out the minor details, to start with his cancellation of his contract with Manchester.

"The signing represents a considerable financial effort for l'OM. But that illustrates our will to reinforce the existing squad with players of a very high level.

"We have provided the means for the deal which will affirm our ambition for next season."

Bouchet added that, after settling in, Barthez has proven himself to still be one of the best keepers in the world.

"After a small and completely normal settling-in period, taking into account the three months previous, one could see all the good he could bring to us.

"He has a presence in the dressing room, which in fact is a true benchmark of the man, and of course he has great sporting quality.

"He has showed that he is one of the best keepers in the world."