Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba offered shock chance to keep playing football in Russian celebrity league after four-year doping ban – with monthly salary of £1,100 tabled

The French midfielder, who savoured World Cup glory with his country in 2018, has been handed a lengthy suspension in the wake of a failed drugs test. As things stand, the former Manchester United star is set to be out of action until the age of 35.

Pogba is appealing his ban, as Juventus mull over the termination of his contract in Turin, but alternative solutions to a prolonged spell away from competitive action are being presented. According to Tuttosport, the enigmatic 30-year-old has been approached by Broke Boys – a team from Russia’s celebrity-hosted Media Football League.

That championship was created in 2022, with teams made up of personalities from the worlds of social media and acting. Pogba could become a famous sporting figure in the amateur division, with Broke Boys sporting director Artjom Chatjaturjan telling Tuttosport: “It may seem like a joke, but we called him. So far he has politely refused. He is in a desperate moment and needs time to accept it, Pogba is one of the best footballers in world won't be able to play for that long.”

Pogba has been presented with an offer that includes a monthly salary of £1,167 and benefits such as “luxury” accommodation that would not be shared with any other players. For now, the France international is focused on clearing his name and returning to elite competition, but he may have to weigh up other options if a long-term ban remains in place.