The controversy surrounding Neymar's transfer to Barcelona continues. Earlier today, president Josep Maria Bartomeu denied being involved in the Brazilian player's signing with Los Blaugranas, blaming former president Sandro Rosell of any wrongdoing on that matter.
According to sources present in today's hearing, Bartomeu told Judge Pablo Ruz he wasn't involved in Neymar's transaction, stating it was Rosell who arranged the eleven contracts Neymar signed to become a player for Los Cules. The current Barça boss revealed he had to sign those contracts when he became President, since the club was indicted for tax evasion. After signing those documents, Bartomeu ordered Barcelona's tax attorneys to pay 13.5 million euros to the Spanish IRS, which were intended to solve the problem. Bartomeu denied being involved in the matter, since he was part of the team's governing body, but he had nothing to do in the negotiation that led to the Brazilian wingman's signing.
Xavi: "We've had enough of the 'Neymar incident'"
In a related note, midfielder Xavi Hernandez told a radio show the team has grown tired of being asked about Neymar's situation. Given it's a legal issue, Hernandez stated some members of the press refer to this subject so they can't perform their job correctly, rather than gathering useful information about it.
"It has been a topic for over a year now, and certainly we are growing tired of it. It's complicated for all of us. Obviously we don't like these off-the-pitch topics, and it would be great if it's sorted out soon. We've had enough! The other day I spoke to the president and we agreed that it's uncomfortable for everyone, but that's the kind of question we have to endure,"the midfielder said.
Added to this IRS situation, Barcelona will still not be able to make any incoming transfers this summer, after being banned by FIFA for signing players under the age of 18 not born in the European Union.
