Barcelona to appeal over Fifa ban on player sign-ups
Suspension is a new blow to the image of Europe's most successful club of the 21st century after tax evasion allegations in signing star Brazilian Neymar
Barcelona are to appeal against a one-year ban that Fifa imposed for a "serious" breach of rules in the signing of under-age players over a four-year period, the club said.
The sanction, which prevents the club from buying new players until summer 2015, is related to the signing of 10 youngsters under the age of 18 between 2009 and 2013 with the governing body also finding the Spanish Football Federation guilty of improper practice.
"FC Barcelona will present an appeal to Fifa and if need be will take the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport [CAS]," the club said on their website.
FC Barcelona forms people before sportsmen, something that has not been considered by Fifa
"The club will also request precautionary measures that will preserve the rights of the club, including the incorporation of players during the transfer windows."
The appeal will have to be lodged with Fifa's Appeal Committee within three days and the club could take the case to CAS as a final measure.
The suspension is a new blow to the image of Europe's most successful club of the 21st century after tax evasion allegations in signing star Brazilian Neymar.
However, in a lengthy statement released on their website, the club strictly defended the way in which they coach and educate players under the age of 18 who come to the club.
Under Fifa's rules a youngster under the age of 18 can only be transferred if the player's parents have moved country.