PSG Superstar Neymar Testifies In Barcelona Transfer Trial
Brazilian soccer mega-star Neymar testified in a Spanish court for a few minutes Tuesday, saying he knew little about the negotiations leading up to his transfer to Barcelona in 2013.
"My father handles everything," Neymar said. "I wasn't involved in the negotiations. I only sign what he tells me to sign."
Neymar's father is also his longtime agent and the two have been accused of fraud. So have the soccer star's mother, two former Barcelona presidents and several representatives from the club and Neymar's prior team, the Brazilian squad Santos.
Neymar now plays for the Paris-based PSG club in France's top league.
They're all accused of obscuring the true amount of the transfer fee from the Brazilian investment group DIS.
Prosecutors charged Neymar, 30, with corruption. They are seeking a prison sentence of up to two years for Neymar and his father.
DIS accused Neymar and his father of corruption and fraud and are seeking a five-year prison sentence for both men and a fine of about $195 million to be paid to Spain. DIS also seeks about $34 million in compensation.
DIS was entitled to 40% of Neymar's transfer but said it received smaller compensation because part of the transfer fee was concealed. Prosecutors said those involved tried to hide the real amount of the transfer to pay a lower commission.
All defendants have denied wrongdoing. The World Cup opens in Qatar on Nov 20, where Neymar is expected to participate on the Brazilian national team.
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