PAUL POGBA could be in line for a shock return to football despite being hit with a four-year ban, according to reports.
The Juventus star, 30, tested positive for banned substance DHEA in August and has not played since being given a provisional suspension a month later.
Pogba has been slapped with a lengthy ban and he cannot play again until 2027 as things stand, although he denies any wrongdoing and does plan to appeal.
The midfielder will be 35 years old by the time he is allowed back on the pitch.
But Pogba has been handed a surprise route back to football from a Russian celebrity league.
A team named Broke Boys are interested in signing the former Manchester United ace.
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They play in Russia’s Media Football League, which is a division made up of teams that feature celebs like actors and influencers.
Broke Boys chief Artjom Chatjaturjan is serious about his interest in Pogba and has made him a contract offer.
He told Tuttosport: “It may seem like a joke, we called him. But 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.”
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It has been reported that Broke Boys offered him a £1,167-a-month wage and a luxury apartment to stay in.
Meanwhile, there has been speculation that Pogba could see his Juventus contract ripped up.
Other rumours suggest that he is considering hanging up his boots if his appeal is not successful.
Pogba’s ban could be reduced if he can prove the banned substance was in his system due to contamination or by accident.
The World Cup winner denies any wrongdoing, saying: “I believe that the verdict is incorrect.
“I am sad, shocked and heartbroken that everything I have built in my professional playing career has been taken away from me.
“When I am free of legal restrictions the full story will become clear, but I have never knowingly or deliberately taken any supplements that violate anti-doping regulations.
“As a professional athlete I would never do anything to enhance my performance by using banned substances,
“And have never disrespected or cheated fellow athletes and supporters of any of the teams I have played for, or against.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
