Real Madrid Transfer News: Radamel Falcao Hits Out at Monaco Lies
Ben Blackmore@@Blackmore_BR
Featured ColumnistAugust 19, 2013
Radamel Falcao insists he will not be making a sharp exit from Monaco to join Real Madrid, or any other side for that matter, according to quotes in L’Equipe reported by ESPN.
Falcao only joined Monaco at the start of the summer, but Miguel Serrano of Marca claimed he could be set for a rapid exit due to tax issues. The Colombian, though, told L’Equipe such talk is “rubbish”: "I would simply like to say that the article in Marca is a tissue of lies. It's just a load of rubbish. I'm very happy in Monaco. I chose this project."
As reported by Tony Stenson of The Daily Star, Falcao’s name became linked to several English clubs—including Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea—as well as Real Madrid following reports of unrest over the weekend.
Marca cites the complex tax situation surrounding Monaco as the source of Falcao’s potential discontent, following his €60 million summer switch from Atletico Madrid.
Monaco face a possible fine of £85 million if they do not adhere to the tax regulations put forward by the French government, which would see high-paid players such as Falcao taxed 75 percent of their salary.
The principality club can currently attract players on big wages with the promise of an exemption from tax, but an anticipated rule enforcement could see Falcao’s earnings cut in half.
Boss Claudio Ranieri, who saw his side register a second league win at the weekend, was quoted by ESPN saying: "What do you want me to say? The rumours are rumours. Falcao is staying at Monaco. Of course he's happy here. His child [Dominique, born on August 13] was born here. He feels good here."
FIFA rules would permit Falcao to make yet another switch, with players allowed to represent a maximum of three clubs in one season.
However, it seems highly unlikely that the prolific forward will leave Monaco having only agreed to join on May 31. He has also made a bright start to his career under Ranieri, scoring in both his opening Ligue 1 encounters.