Video - Diego Maradona set for shock comeback as he freestyles with Robin Van Persie
Diego Maradona is set to make a playing comeback at the age of 53 in the Argentine fifth division, according to reports today.
The World Cup winner, who is hailed by many as the greatest footballer of all time, is reportedly ready to put his boots back on and turn out for minnows Deportivo Riestra.
And the club could even quit their 3,000-capacity stadium and play at the nearby home of top-flight champions San Lorenzo to cater for the interest in Maradona's comeback.
Reports claim the ex-Napoli and Barcelona man has been convinced to sign by friend and legal representative Victor Stinfale, the financier of the Buenos Aires side, and will make his debut on March 23.
Maradona was briefly appointed Riestra's 'Spiritual Coach' last August, and stories this week claimed he told officials: "I want to play".
The club have contacted the Argentine FA to ask that Maradona be allowed to join the squad, and club insiders have told an Argentine newspaper that they are confident that the paperwork will be completed.
"Within five game-weeks, Maradona will be playing for Riestra," a source was quoted as saying. "He will debut on approximately the 23rd of March."
Squad member Victor More has revealed he will give up the number 10 shirt for the arriving legend.
