Former Rangers stars face huge bills this year after failing to strike a deal with HMRC over a controversial tax avoidance scheme.
It’s understood several of those who benefited from the Ibrox side’s Employee Benefit Trust (EBT) will be hit with tax demands – with some potentially owing millions.
It’s because they didn’t agree a repayment plan with HMRC by a deadline of April 5.
HMRC rules on so-called “disguised remuneration schemes” say the unpaid money will now be lumped into one income tax bill which is due at the end of the tax year. It’s not known which former Rangers figures have yet to settle with the taxman.
A source connected with the EBT investigation said: “Some former players were quick to agree a deal with the taxman who has been very fair in sorting out repayment plans.
“But others involved in the EBT scheme believe it’s the club who are to blame for this and are reluctant to pay the tax.”
HMRC was given power to go after former Rangers figures following a Supreme Court ruling in July 2017 that said EBT payments made under the David Murray regime at Ibrox were not loans but earnings that should have been taxed.
The payback could hit Ibrox old boys from goalie Stefan Klos to less heralded signings including Nuno Capucho and Julien Rodriguez.
Former club owner Murray, with an estimated liability of more than £3million, is by far the biggest potential loser.
A UK spokesman said: “HMRC is committed to providing affordable payment arrangements and enhanced support more vulnerable customers may need.”
