Maradona arrested over tax evasion claims

Diego Maradona's return to Napoli could be jeapordised after his arrest in Italy over tax-evasion claims.

Maradona was arrested at Rome's Leonardo Da Vinci airport over claims he evaded taxes when he was a player at the club.

Tax inspectors have told the footballer he owes £17 million in evaded taxes and interest.

Maradona left the airport immediately after signing papers presented to him by the inspectors.

Speaking by telephone with Argentina's Radio Mitre, Maradona has rejected the accusations and says he had nothing to hide.

Maradona sounded in good spirits and quipped: "I told them I didn't bring all the money with me."

In a more serious tone, Maradona said he did not owe anyone anything and played down the seriousness of the accusations.

"Surely, there are some who will want to make a big deal out of this, but in reality, it's just one big lie," he said.

Maradona went to Italy to appear on television shows and unveil a limited-edition coin engraved with his image, but he was also expected to continue his discussions with Italian Serie A club Napoli.

Maradona has been talking to Napoli chairman Corrado Ferlaino about a possible return to his former club in a management role.