Dad of Gareth Bale fiancée Emma Rhys-Jones could be jailed for 30 years

Martin Rhys-Jones is reportedly being held in a US jail over allegations of a multi-million pound international fraud.

The 49-year-old is thought to have been accused of 40 charges of wire fraud and money laundering.

He is accused of running a telemarketing scam from Barcelona, which allegedly saw victims sold low-value shares for high prices.

If found guilty, Martin could face a maximum prison term of 30 years.

US investigator Gerald Randall said: “I can confirm Martin Rhys-Jones was extradited to the United States and is currently incarcerated.

“It is a complex investigation which is why it has taken so long to come to trial.”

New Real Madrid star Gareth – who is now the world’s most expensive footballer following his £86m switch from Tottenham – has dated childhood sweetheart Emma, 23, for years.

Last year, the couple became parents for the first time following the birth of baby daughter Alba.

But Gareth, 24, has put off a wedding in the hope Martin will be released from prison in order to walk Emma down the aisle.

US authorities confirmed he is trying to get bail, but it is unlikely due to his attempts to resist extradition from Spain.

Brunette Emma is thought to be planning to stay in the UK for the next few weeks, until Gareth finds a new pad for his family in Madrid.

•Credit (except amended headline): Daily Star UK. Photo shows Bale.