Madrid may be forced to sell stars like Ronaldo, Bale if found guilty of financial fraud

Spanish giants Real Madrid are among seven La Liga clubs that could have to sell their top stars if EU Commission finds them guilty of dubious land deals, tax scams and cheap loan agreements.

According to the Mirror, Madrid could be forced to sell stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale if they are found to have received illegal state aid.

Barcelona, Valencia, Athletic Bilbao, Osasuna, Elche and Hercules are also under scrutiny, the report said.

And, if it is found that any club benefited from a level of state aid that contravenes European regulations, they face repaying the money in full as well as a heavy rate of interest, the report added.

A state-aid expert said that it is understood complaints have been lodged with the European Commission by investors and supporters of several clubs from outside Spain, including Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund, the report further said.

Real Madrid, in particular, could face major financial problems if it is found that the aid they have been receiving from government has 'distorted or threatened to distort competition', the report mentioned.