Former Real Madrid star Rafael van der Vaart has slammed Barcelona's summer spending.

Van der Vaart is baffled by Barca's big outlay given their financial problems.

The Dutchman said on Ziggo Sport: "How the hell can you buy players when you don't have the money? I think it's a shame.

"And (president Joan) Laporta can't stop laughing everywhere with his big head. This man thinks he's the king. But I think he's a bit silly. The name of Barca has been very poorly highlighted.

"Now we judge them differently and I think it's a shame when you play with that. You can't treat people like that.

"Does Frenkie (de Jong) earn too much? First you sign a contract and then you fulfill it or you leave on good terms, but not like that. It's a mafia and they must be punished."