David Beckham probed by le taxman

— Ex-Man Utd and Real Madrid star to donate salary to charity
— New club admit plan investigated by France’s 'fiscal administration'

Tax investigation ... David Beckham announced as new PSG player

FRENCH tax authorities are probing the big-money deal that took David Beckham to Paris Saint-Germain.

The 37-year-old ex-England skipper, due to make his PSG debut today, has pledged to give his salary to charity.

But he has faced accusations that the move is a cynical tax dodge — which his management has strenuously denied.

Jean-Claude Blanc, managing director of PSG, the world’s richest club, admitted that a “formal discussion” was taking place with France’s “fiscal administration”.

He said the club “have had a lot of requests” for Beckham’s charity salary.

And he said PSG wanted to keep government charges to a minimum, claiming “the largest possible amount” would go to needy kids.

France’s Socialist government is introducing a 75 per cent top-rate income tax for multi-millionaires and many believe Beckham should pay it if he is playing there.

PSG will pay the star’s £700,000 estimated wages direct to charity.

So Becks, who signed last month, will not be liable for a 1.5 per cent tax on his worldwide income and wealth of about £200million — a possible bill of at least £3million.

A French Treasury spokesman said: “We cannot discuss individual cases,” but confirmed that all “high-worth” individuals working in France would be scrutinised.

Last night a representative for Becks said: “David has given any income he would have earned from PSG to charity. We have nothing to hide.”