The Alliance of American Football is being sued by a man who claims the new spring football league was his idea, according to a report by Action Network's Darren Rovell.

According to Rovell’s report, Robert Vanech is suing the AAF and founder Charlie Ebersol, claiming he is entitled to 50 percent ownership of the league. Vanech, a venture capitalist based in Los Angeles, allegedly believes he had a “handshake agreement” with Ebersol, which he claims Ebersol ignored.

JUST IN: Charlie Ebersol and the new football league, the AAF, have been sued by Robert Vanech, who said it was his idea to come up with league and was entitled to 50% ownership.



Vanech says agreement with Ebersol was ignored, seeks $$ and wants his name part of its history. — Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) February 25, 2019

In lawsuit against AAF and Charlie Ebersol, Robert Vanech -- who believed he had a "handshake agreement with Ebersol" said much of what he founded about the league was later credited to partner Bill Polian. — Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) February 25, 2019

Exhibit in lawsuit shows that AAF originally planned to use XFL name & purchase assets from WWE & NBC for $50M.



AAF met with Vince McMahon and he decided to start league on his own. — Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) February 25, 2019

Ebersol, the son of former television executive Dick Ebersol, co-founded the league along with Hall of Fame NFL general manager Bill Polian. Tom Dundon — owner of the NHL's Carolina Hurricane — is listed as majority owner and chairman of the AAF, while Ebersol is CEO and Polian "Head of Football."

The AAF released the following statement on Monday afternoon:

"Mr. Vanech’s claim is without merit. There was never any agreement, oral or written, between Mr. Vanech and Mr. Ebersol relating to The Alliance.

“We remain focused solely on our historic, inaugural season when each weekend over 400 players get an opportunity to showcase their talents and fulfill their dreams of playing professional football.”

The AAF began play earlier this month with franchises in eight cities, including Birmingham and Atlanta. The Birmingham Iron is 3-0 and tied for first place in the AAF East Division through three weeks of the 10-game schedule.