Mauricio Pellegrino has refused to comment further on reports he is taking legal action against his former club Alaves over unpaid bonuses.

It has been reported that Pellegrino feels he is owed as much as €500,000 by the Spanish club, who refute the claims.

Pellegrino insisted the matter is in the hands of his lawyers.

He said: “It is something that my lawyer is managing.

“I don’t want to discuss this publically in the press.

“It is a sad moment for me but I have to do because I represent people who work there. I have to put my name there.”

Alaves have issued a statement on the issue which reads: "Ahead of the information being published that speaks of details of bonuses paid to Mauricio Pellegrino and the coaching staff, Deportivo Alaves says: 1. The amounts of bonuses reflected in the contract of Mauricio Pellegrino have been completely paid.

2. The bonuses considered are, among other things: survival in the league, Copa del Rey and final league position.

3. Mauricio Pellegrino, through his representatives, claims an additional bonus not reflected in his contract, alleging that he is owed part of the agreed bonuses for the players.

"Deportivo Alaves concludes that it has completed its contract with Mauricio Pellegrino and the coaching staff in its totality. It believes that it need not pay twice for the same thing."