That's right, 60 million British Pounds.
It was, without a doubt, the highest signing bonus in history!
However, the money was to be paid over four years, which meant an annual payment of 15 million British Pounds.
In Europe, player salaries are paid by the clubs, so taxes are deducted at the source.
Many stars' tax issues stem more from things like image rights and bonuses.
In February of '11, many players from Manchester United and Chelsea were embroiled in tax evasion issues and investigated by the UK's Royal Revenue and Customs Bureau, with the focus being on image rights.
For example, fees from commercial activities, commissions from jersey sales, and so on.
Players usually set up a company, and the club pays the money directly to that company.
If a player wants to withdraw money from this company, they have to pay a 28% tax. But if they take it out as a loan, it's only 2%.
