David Beckham sues Mark Wahlberg over £8.5m loss as friendship 'in tatters'

David Beckham has reportedly launched a legal battle against actor Mark Wahlberg, claiming a fitness brand deal cost him a whopping £8.5million. The football legend's company, DB Ventures Ltd, had teamed up with gym group F45 and Wahlberg, agreeing to act as the firm's global ambassador.

David and Mark had become friends after the Beckhams moved to LA in 2007, living in the same Beverly Hills neighbourhood. However, it seems their friendship is now on rocky ground, with David allegedly claiming he was "duped" by the Hollywood star.

The Sun reports that David alleges he was promised stocks by F45 and Mark Wahlberg's company, but these were withheld until after share prices fell, supposedly costing him £8.5m. As a result, the father of four has taken legal action against Mark's company, Mark Wahlberg Investment Group [MWIG], and F45 founders Adam Gilchrist and Rob Deutsch.

In response to David's claims, Mark and the F45 owners have denied any "fraudulent conduct", asking the judge to dismiss the lawsuit. They also suggest that David's company is blaming everyone but themselves.

The publication further reports that documents related to the case state the "209 page, 610 paragraph SAC [complaint] tries to makeup with length what it lacks in merit.", reports the Mirror.

David Beckham also revealed he is facing a new stress, this time with the fact his daughter Harper is growing up.

Earlier this month, the star became emotional and struggled to hold back tears as he shared an adorable post about Harper. David posted a black and white picture of him and his daughter taken during a night out.

Showing off their close bond, Harper is seen sat on her dad's lap. In the caption he wrote: "My little girl is growing up [face holding back tears emoji]. He then added "boys get ready" before tagging his three sons Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz along with a boxing glove emoji.

Turning his attention to his wife Victoria, he tagged her in the post and wrote "good job mamma." And it didn't take long for fans to comment on the post. One person said: "You seem to have a beautiful relationship, good job Dad!"

The Mirror has contacted representatives of David Beckham and Mark Wahlberg for comment.