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Neymar Trial: Barcelona star ordered to court over £22m transfer fee
BARCELONA star Neymar has been ordered to stand trial for fraud, having been accused of concealing at least £22million of his transfer fee.
Barcelona signed Neymar from Santos in 2013
Neymar could face a jail sentence if found guilty over accusations he and his family helped hide away millions.
Barcelona signed Neymar from Santos in 2013 and claimed the deal cost £48.4m (€57.1m).
The Nou Camp club stated that £33.9m (€40m) of the fee had been given to his family.
But Spanish authorities looking into the deal believe that the full amount of the transfer fee could actually be as high as £70.3m (€83m).
According to Sky, Neymar will stand trial alongside his parents, Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu, former Barca president Sandro Rosell and Santos.
The authorities have heard from Brazilian investment company DIS, who came they were cheated out of their fair share in the initial transfer, having owned 40 per cent of Neymar’s sporting rights.
The report claims Neymar could face jail or a large fine if found guilty.
Neymar first played against Barcelona at the 201 Club World Cup
Neymar has won the Champions League and two La Liga titles at Barcelona
Neymar is goal away from 100 Barcelona goals
Neymar’s career has skyrocketed at Barcelona, where he has excelled on the pitch alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.
The Brazilian, 25, was also named captain of his national side last year.
He is one away from 100 goals for Barcelona and has won two La Liga titles plus the Champions League since moving to Catalonia.