"We have just known through the media about the claim filed by the Spanish tax authorities. We are surprised about the news, because we have never committed any infringement.
"We have always fulfilled all our tax obligations, following the advice of our tax consultants who will take care to clarify this situation."
Lionel Messi pictured during the 2013 Champions League final. Credit: Empics
Barcelona football star Lionel Messi and his father have been accused by Spanish tax authorities of defrauding the state of more than €4m (£3.4m).
World Player of the Year Messi and his father Jorge allegedly filed fraudulent tax returns for the years 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009, according to a spokesman for the prosecutor's office for tax crimes in Catalonia.
The Argentinian forward is on an estimated €16m (£13.5m) annual salary at Barcelona.
Japanese jeweller unveils £3.5m solid gold replica Messi foot
A solid gold replica of Lionel Messi's left foot was unveiled by a Japanese jeweller in Tokyo today.
Masakazu Tanaka and Rodrigo Messi, brother of Lionel, unveil the golden foot. Credit: APTN
The golden foot, made by the Tanaka Kikinzoku firm, is valued at around £3.5m.
The foot weighs 25kg and measures 25cm x 28cm. Credit: APTN
Barcelona and Argentina star Messi, who has won FIFA's Ballon d'Or award for the last three years , said: "I'm honoured to have my foot recreated in pure gold."
Lio Messi, 25, smiles as his foot is cast. Credit: APTN
Lionel Messi celebrates setting new goalscoring record
Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring against Real Betis. Credit: ReutersMessi is congratulated by team mates after scoring his second goal against Real Betis. Credit: Reuters
