Former Chelsea star handed seven-month prison sentence

Former Chelsea star Ricardo Carvalho has been given a seven-month prison sentence after admitting to tax fraud during his time with Real Madrid in Spain.

The 39-year-old, who is now in the ranks of Shanghai SIPG, failed to disclose the income received from image rights at the Bernabeu between 2011 and 2012, El MundoDeportes claims.

As a result, the Portuguese has been ordered to settle a fine of around £128,000 despite the public prosecutor initially requesting the veteran's penalty to be 12 months with a £269,000 fine.

Carvalho is said to have concealed fees in the region of £488,500, but he managed to limit his damage by pleading guilty prior to the final hearing.

According to Spanish law, sentences for non-violent crimes of less than two years are normally suspended, and Carvalho is unlikely to spend any time behind bars.

The 39-year-old is currently enjoying the final years of his career, but he would be glad of what he has achieved. Carvalho was the oldest outfield player at the European championship last year where Portugal beat hosts France to lift their first major title.