Ronaldo not among 5 footballers under scanner in Spain for tax offences

Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo wasn't among the footballers under scanner from the Madrid prosecution for tax offences, according to the Madrid prosecution on Wednesday.

The Madrid prosecution accused three footballers of tax offences and initiated proceedings against two other players, stemming from data made available by Spain's tax authority, reports Efe.

Prosecution officials mentioned that Ronaldo is not among the five players under scrutiny but denied providing information regarding the identities of the five suspects.

Ex-Madrid players Xabi Alonso, Angel Di Maria and Ricardo Carvalho are reportedly being charged. Former Atletico Madrid Radamel Falcao and Real madrid full-back Fabio Coentrao are being reportedly investigated.

The Madrid prosecution added that they endorsed the precautionary measure from the judge to preclude personal, financial and tax information that was acquired illegally, which might affect the investigations.

A group of European media organisations have reported that Ronaldo have siphoned off at least $150 million in income through off shore tax haven accounts since 2009, adding the Spanish tax authorities are investigating his affairs for the last 12 months.

Ronaldo's agency Gestifute denied any wrongdoing, saying its client has fully compliant with all of his tax obligations.

Real Madrid have also called for the "utmost respect" to be shown to Ronaldo, saying the Portuguese is "up to date with all of his tax obligations."

Madrid's statement, as per ESPN said: "In view of the stories published over recent days and in consideration of the certificate issued by the Spanish Tax Agency which confirms that our player Cristiano Ronaldo is up to date with all of his tax obligations, Real Madrid C.F. call for the utmost respect to be shown towards Cristiano Ronaldo, whose conduct has been absolutely exemplary throughout all of his time at our club."

--IANS

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