Smuggled watch purchases: Investigation opened into several world football stars

A judicial investigation opened in Andorra has shed light on a suspected network trading luxury watches illegally between the Principality and Spain, with several top-level footballers involved as buyers.

The proceedings, led by Judge Joan Carles Moynat with the support of the Guardia Civil, allege that the company Best In Asociados introduced expensive models to the market while evading tax obligations, Spanish media report, as “Gazeta Express” reports.

At the center of the investigation is entrepreneur Diego G.C., in pre-trial detention since October 2025 on charges of smuggling and money laundering, offenses punishable by up to eight years in prison in Andorra.

Many footballers who played in La Liga involved: Carvajal stands out

The operations were conducted mainly in Madrid, where many La Liga professionals had access to exclusive watches at prices below market rates.

Among the well-known names summoned to testify are Dani Carvajal, Giovani Lo Celso, Juan Bernat, César Azpilicueta, Thomas Partey, Santi Cazorla and David Silva.

The authorities aim to clarify how these products were purchased and delivered, mainly prestigious brands such as Rolex and Patek Philippe, to determine whether the buyers were aware of the irregular origin of the transactions or were simply customers of a tax evasion scheme.

Money turnover reaches 1.35 million euros

The financial details uncovered show very high figures: the largest expenditure is attributed to Thomas Partey, who reportedly paid 415,000 euros for three Patek Philippe watches, followed by Juan Bernat with 367,000 euros and David Silva with 295,000 euros.

Dani Carvajal is also on the list for purchasing a Rolex Daytona for around 65,000 euros in 2021.

The investigation, launched in September 2025 after a customs seizure, estimates that 38 watches worth a total of 1.35 million euros were brought in illegally, with undeclared profits also used to buy luxury vehicles.