Spanish referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero is facing a potential five-year ban and £85,000 (€100,000) fine following an investigation by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
The probe centres on Montero's ownership of sports consultancy agency Talentus Sports, which reportedly counts UEFA, LaLiga, and several football clubs among its clients.
The investigation comes amid controversy over Montero's recent decision to show a red card to Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham during a match against Osasuna.
The investigation is examining whether Montero violated point 9.1 of the regulatory code, which prohibits individuals from having "secondary interests that may interfere with the fulfillment of their professional obligations."
Jude Bellingham was sent off for shouting an expletive at referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero
Reuters
Talentus Sports' alleged client list includes major football organisations and clubs, with Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, and Paris Saint-Germain among those reported.
The Federation's Compliance Committee is still gathering evidence and has not reached a decision on the matter.
The controversy stems from Montero showing Bellingham a straight red card during Real Madrid's 1-1 draw with Osasuna.
Bellingham was reportedly heard telling Montero "I am talking to you with respect" before allegedly muttering an expletive as he turned away.
The England midfielder has insisted he "never insulted the referee" and claims his remark was "an expression to myself."
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has backed his player, maintaining the situation was a misunderstanding.
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The club is reportedly "incensed" by the decision, with Bellingham potentially facing a 12-match suspension.
The RFEF has issued a statement defending Montero following death threats and abuse on social media.
"The professional referees are absolutely repulsed by the attacks and threats that our colleague Jose Luis Munuera Montero is receiving through social networks," the federation said.
The RFEF added that such attacks contribute to "hatred and verbal violence" faced by officials weekly, which "becomes, even more regrettably, physical violence" at grassroots levels.
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Referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero is facing a five-year ban
Reuters
In the wake of the controversy, Montero was not assigned to officiate any of the 10 matches in the upcoming La Liga matchweek.
Real Madrid have met with LaLiga's refereeing council (CTA) and accused officials of 'bias'.
Bellingham has since addressed the incident on social media, writing: "Enough said about the misunderstanding.
"Just wanted to apologise again for leaving my teammates in such a tough position and thank the fans for their support and understanding."
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