Real Madrid Seeks Comprehensive Financial Insights in Negreira Case

Real Madrid has taken a significant step in the ongoing Negreira case by formally requesting full access to crucial financial documentation. This move, revealed by former La Liga referee Xavier Estrada Fernández, who is acting as a private prosecutor, underscores the gravity of one of the most consequential investigations in football history. The request aims to scrutinize financial audits, due diligence reports, and forensic analyses related to FC Barcelona‘s finances from 2010 to 2021, specifically concerning payments made to José María Enríquez Negreira and associated entities.

Estrada Fernández shared the details via social media, highlighting that Real Madrid’s request includes reports from prestigious firms such as KPMG, PwC, Deloitte, and Kroll. This thorough inquiry reflects Real Madrid’s determination to uncover the intricacies of Barcelona’s financial decisions over the past decade, particularly those payments that lie at the heart of this investigation.

Accessing Extensive Documentation

In addition to third-party audits, Real Madrid is demanding access to over 600 documents submitted by FC Barcelona to the court in July 2023. These documents are pivotal as they comprise a significant portion of the evidence presented during the investigative phase. Furthermore, Real Madrid is pursuing detailed information regarding an internal investigation commissioned by FC Barcelona itself. This encompasses preliminary and final reports, interview transcripts or summaries conducted during that investigation, as well as any internal compliance checks performed by the Catalan club.

Aiming for Transparency and Justification

The intention behind this extensive request is clear: Real Madrid seeks to ascertain not just what payments were made but also how they were internally justified and whether appropriate governance processes were adhered to. Estrada Fernández articulated the overarching goal of these proceedings: “The aim is to show all the documents and clarify what was paid and why.” Beyond mere transparency, this request aims to evaluate whether these multimillion-euro payments had legitimate business justifications or if they hint at potential governance failures or undue influence.

While no sporting sanctions have yet been levied against FC Barcelona, the looming legal and reputational repercussions continue to cast a long shadow over both clubs involved. As this investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how these revelations will impact their futures in Spanish football.