Neymar: Barcelona suing Brazilian star after move to Paris Saint-Germain

Aug. 22 (UPI) -- FC Barcelona released a statement Tuesday demanding that Neymar Jr. return his contract renewal bonus as well as $10 million in damages.

The Brazilian superstar joined French club Paris Saint-Germain on August 3 after joining Barcelona in 2013. He signed a new five-year deal with the Spanish club in October.

FC Barcelona sent the Spanish Football Federation the labor lawsuit on August 11 at the Labour Tribunal in Barcelona.

"In the lawsuit, the Club demands the player return the already paid sum for his contract renewal as he has not completed his contract; 8.5 million euros in damages; and an additional 10% because of delayed payment," Barcelona said in a statement. "The Club also requests Paris Saint-Germain take on responsibility for the payment of these fees if the player cannot do so himself."

"FC Barcelona has started these proceedings to protect its interests following Neymar's decision to buy out his contract just months after he signed an extension until 2021. This legal defence will be carried out following the established procedures with the competent authorities without entering into any verbal arguments with the player."

Neymar, 25, already has three goals and three assists in two games with Paris Saint-Germain.