Belgium's most successful football club, Anderlecht, has asked its players to forgo their salary for one month in a bid save at least €2 million.
Anderlecht has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic and it is being reported that playing staff are being asked to show solidarity by giving up 30 days wages, according to a Reuters report.
The Belgian club's chief executive Karel Van Eetvelt confirmed the news to radio and television network Sporza.
"It will save us at least two million euros," said Van Eetvelt of the club which decided not to take the action of suspending contracts as it would be too risky.
"Therefore, we have chosen to ask them to hand back some of their salary.
"I am very glad there is solidarity among the players and they understand how urgent the situation is," Van Eetvelt added, suggesting an agreement is in place but local media reports say it is still being negotiated.
Former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany was player/manager but decided to focus more on the playing side this season with the first-team who are in eighth position in the Beligian Pro League which, like other European leagues, is currently suspended.
Van Eetvelt is hoping that the City legend can help with the current situation.
"The role of Vincent Kompany is crucial because he stands between management and the players and can appeal to them directly," he said.
It was announced on Sunday that the club had let go of assistant coach and former player Par Zetterberg due to the financial impact of the coronavirus outbreak.
"Professional football, like most economic activities, is facing a great challenge due to the Covid-10 epidemic," the club said in a statement.
"It's having a major financial impact on the club's operations.
"Management strive every day to prepare the club in the short term against the significant loss of income that the break brings.
"Therefore we have decided to dismiss Par Zetterberg.
"The Swede remains a legend of the club."
Zetterberg admitted to being shocked at the news when questioned after the news.
"I didn't see it coming," he told Belgian media.
"The club ended my contract without much explanation.
"I'm not sad, but I'm disappointed.
"Do they want to save money? Were they unhappy with my work?
"I have to accept it even if I don't understand it."
Anderlecht have won a record 34 Belgian top-flight titles as well as 9 Belgian Cups and three European titles.
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