Barcelona's defender avoids prison

Barcelona's Javier Mascherano has been handed a one year prison sentence for not properly paying taxes in Spain but is not expected to serve any time in jail. He has reached an agreement with Spanish authorities as he failed to declare earnings in 2011 and 2012 which amounted to 1.5 million euros. The Argentine international was fined 800.000 euros on Thursday and has been prevented from receiving any tax benefits for a year. However, the prison sentence is expected to be replaced by another fine or dismissed entirely. Masherano was accused by Spain's tax office of concealing part of what he earned in image rights. Barcelona's defender also suggested that he could pursue legal action himself against the company which he claims gave him poor advice which led to the case being opened.
Tax paying problem also have Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr. which means that on their case we should expect similar penalties.