He caused Messi's departure from Barcelona, now he could go to prison for fraud

Lionel Messi said goodbye to FC Barcelona in 2021. Although his possible return in 2023 has been rumored, his departure a year ago caused a commotion. The culprit behind his departure is now under investigation for alleged fraud in a media transfer and could end up in prison.

Although ‘La Pulga' left the Culé team during Joan Laporta's administration, it was Josep Maria Bartomeu who caused the economic issues that led to Messi's departure. Now, the former Blaugrana president is in the spotlight for the signing of Neymar nine years ago.

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The Barcelona prosecutor's office is investigating the contract between the Brazilian and the Catalan club in 2013. Among those involved are Sandro Rosell, Bartomeu, Neymar and his two parents. The case is given because of the alleged swindle in the contract of the current PSG striker.

How many years in prison could Bartomeu get?

The trial will take place from October 17 and the Prosecutor's Office is asking for five years in prison for Bartomeu, who at the time served as vice president of FC Barcelona. Neymar, could also serve jail time.