EU wants to probe Real and Barcelona

The finances of the two biggest clubs in Spain are now under the microscope. The European Union has asked for infringement proceedings to begin in the case of four La Liga clubs, in all. Barcelona and Real Madrid stand accused of receiving state aid and tax benefits along with Athletic Bilbao and Osasuna. The European Commission, here announcing the investigation, is looking into claims the four clubs have enjoyed favourable tax treatment amounting to "several billion euros" something the EU says needs to be looked into. According to the Spanish Foreign Ministry the allegation centers around the belief that because these four clubs are the only Spanish top-flight sides still owned by their members they receive favourable tax treatment. Along with the alleged tax relief, both Real and Bilbao also face separate investigations. Real’s, deals with the terms of the sale of their former training ground, while Bilbao’s is over aid they received for the construction of their new stadium. The asking of the EU to officially open an investigation has been a long time coming as the initial complaint was filed more than four years ago.