But such spending has raised questions about whether clubs would be able to comply with the Uefa financial fair play regulations.

BBC: Uefa warns clubs after deadline-day transfer spree

There's another major side effect to third-party ownership: Its impact on the new Financial Fair Play regulations that limit the losses clubs wishing to play in lucrative European competition can sustain.

WSJ: Third-Party Ownership: How to Stud a Soccer Player

That is nothing close to what some of the big clubs in Europe would be willing to pay him and still stay the right side of UEFA Financial Fair Play regulations.

FORBES: Bale Comparisons With Messi and Ronaldo Don't Hold Up But .......