Barcelona to sue Neymar over Paris Saint-Germain move

Neymar left Barcelona to sign for Paris Saint-Germain in a world-record transfer worth €222m (£198m) earlier in August.

The statement says the fee relates to a loyalty bonus payment when he signed a five-year contract renewal in October 2016. They are demanding €8.5m in damages plus an additional 10%.

"Barcelona have taken these actions in defence of their interests, after Neymar's contract was rescinded just a few months after he signed on until 2021," the statement said.

"The club also requests Paris Saint-Germain take on responsibility for the payment of these fees if the player cannot do so himself."

PSG later responded to the statement saying they were surprised and believe they have followed the law.

"Paris Saint-Germain was surprised to learn of the press release issued today by FC Barcelona announcing the introduction of legal proceedings in Spain against its former player Neymar Jr. and stating that Default of payment by Neymar Jr. of the sums so demanded by his former club, the Paris Saint-Germain should assume jointly the burden of it.

"The Club recalls that, like Neymar Jr., it strictly respected all applicable laws and rules and can only regret, once again, the attitude of FC Barcelona."

Neymar has made an excellent start to life in France, marking his debut with a goal and an assist against Guingamp and then scoring twice, and assisting another two, during the 6-2 home win over Toulouse on Sunday evening.

"FC Barcelona has sent the Spanish Football Federation the labour lawsuit against Neymar Jr they submitted on 11 August at the Labour Tribunal in Barcelona so that they can pass it on to the appropriate authorities in the French Football Federation and FIFA.

"In the lawsuit, the club demands the player return the already paid sum for his contract renewal as he has not completed his contract; 8.5 million euros in damages; and an additional 10% because of delayed payment. The club also requests Paris Saint-Germain take on responsibility for the payment of these fees if the player cannot do so himself.

"FC Barcelona has started these proceedings to protect its interests following Neymar’s contract termination just months after he signed a contract extension until 2021. This legal defence will be carried out following the established procedures with the competent authorities without entering into any verbal arguments with the player."