MARSEILLE, France (AFP) - Lens' Ivory Coast international Kanga Akale has been loaned to French League rivals Marseille, both clubs confirmed on their website on Thursday.

According to a statement on the Mediterranean club's website Akale "will soon be at Marseille for a medical, prior to signing."

The statement added: "Of course, he will not be available for selection for Saturday's French Cup away tie at Beauvais."

Jose Anigo, Marseille's sporting director, also confirmed that the club's winter spending spree will effectively be over if Akale's deal goes through.

Once Akale passes his medical he will be loaned out for six months with the option to buy for an additional two years.

The 26-year-old striker arrived at Lens at the start of the season from Auxerre.

Lens are currently struggling this season in the relegation zone with 20 points from 18 games while Marseille have trouble finding their stride and are 11th in the league 14 points off leaders Lyon.