Tottenham Midfielder Targeted in Major Financial Fraud
Tottenham Hotspur and Mali midfielder, Yves Bissouma, has become the victim of a significant alleged fraud, with over £800,000 reportedly stolen from his exclusive bank account.
The financial loss occurred at Coutts bank, a prestigious institution known for serving high-net-worth individuals, including celebrities and members of the Royal Family.
Details of the Alleged Theft
The alleged fraudulent activity took place over a nearly two-year period, between September 2022 and June 2024.
According to court records, Maurice Gomes, aged 31, is accused of dishonestly transferring £834,334.40 from the Premier League star's account to himself. The prosecution alleges he did this without Bissouma's knowledge or consent, with the intent to make a personal gain.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Gomes was charged in October with two counts of fraud by false representation. This followed a report made by the £30 million Spurs player over a year ago. Each fraud charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.
The exact connection between Gomes and the footballer, who earns a reported £50,000 per week, remains unclear, as does the method by which Gomes allegedly gained access to the 29-year-old's VIP bank account.
A Tough Year On and Off the Pitch
A source close to the player revealed the emotional impact of this incident, stating, "This has been deeply hurtful for Yves. It’s been a tough year for him on and off the pitch, and this hanging over his head will have contributed to that."
This bank fraud case is not the only crime Bissouma has faced recently. In a separate incident in June, the midfielder was a victim of a violent crime in Cannes, where his £255,000 watch was stolen.
These off-field issues have coincided with a challenging period in his football career. Despite making 100 appearances for Tottenham, Bissouma has been largely sidelined since August and sustained an injury last month while on international duty with Mali.
Gomes is due to appear at Highbury Corner magistrates' court, and if the case proceeds to trial, Bissouma is likely to be called to give evidence.
