French police have conducted a thorough search of the Finance Ministry’s tax administration offices in Paris.
The investigation was prompted by allegations of impropriety in the transfer of Brazilian football superstar Neymar to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
According to a source familiar with the matter, the search was part of a larger inquiry into possible tax fraud and money laundering in the football industry.
Earlier reports by news outlet Mediapart suggested that PSG may have received favourable tax treatment during Neymar’s transfer from Barcelona to the club in 2017.
The French authorities are reportedly investigating whether PSG and its officials obtained tax breaks or other financial benefits that were not available to other clubs.
The investigation is being led by the French financial prosecutor’s office and is part of a broader effort by the government to crack down on tax evasion and fraud in the country.
The Economics and Finance Ministry has declined to comment on the matter, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
