Police were waiting at Fiumicino airport in Rome and informed him he was being investigated for an alleged tax fraud of around �16.6m.

Maradona, who was last month named alongside Pele as the greatest footballer of the 20th Century, was escorted to an office where papers were served.

"It is always the same story when I come back to Italy," Maradona told Radio Mitre, although he also managed to joke.

""I have not got the money on me at the moment. I am fine and I do want to reassure my mother, my daughters and the people of Argentina.

"Of course people are trying to make this into a big deal but it is all just a storm in a teacup," he added.

The 40-year-old, who almost singlehandedly inspired Argentina to the 1986 World Cup trophy, has been embroiled in controversy throughout his career.

Dundee match

The Argentinian, who last year recovered from severe heart problems, was in Italy to promote a series of commemorative medals for his 40th birthday.

It has also been speculated that Maradona will attend his former club side Napoli, who he helped win two Italian championships, play Verona on Sunday.

But that is yet to be confirmed as are suggestions he will meet club director Corrado Ferlaino to discuss a possible role with the club.

Meanwhile, Scottish Premier League club Dundee hope to include the star in a money-spinning friendly at Dens Park.

Caniggia vow

A deal would fulfil a promise former team-mate Claudio Caniggia made when he joined the Tayside outfit earlier this season.

Caniggia vowed to bring his close friend and fellow countryman Maradona to the club when he arrived in October.

Maradona could pocket �250,000 for the appearance, Dundee midfielder Giorgi Nemsadze has suggested.