Rui Pinto’s lawyers in talks with UK authorities over cooperation deal for whistleblower

Rui Pinto’s lawyers are in talks with British authorities over a potential cooperation agreement under which the Manchester City whistleblower could help to expose serious financial and sporting crime in the UK.

According to information obtained by the Guardian, the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has contacted Pinto after it emerged he was willing to assist British authorities with their investigations in exchange for protection.

William Bourdon, Pinto’s lawyer, who has represented whistleblowers such as Edward Snowden and Julian Assange, told the Guardian contact had been established. “I can confirm that the process is under way,” he said, without providing further details.