A Swedish newspaper has reported that AC Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic could face a three-year ban from football after investing in a Malta-based betting company.
Aftonbladet report that Ibrahimovic's company - Unknown AB - invested in Bethard, a Malta-based gambling firm.
The company bought 10% shares in the outfit, and it is reported that the Swedish Football Association has known of the issue for three years.
At the time, Ibrahimovic said of the issue:
"I have obviously been intensively courted by betting companies throughout my career, but up until now I have not been presented to anything that has triggered me.
"With Bethard, there was something different. It is a company with Swedish roots, the founders are from my home town and they are true challengers who really wants to do things differently."
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Rules governing football at both European and world level prevent players from having such dealings with betting companies.
The general secretary of the Swedish Football Association - Hakan Sjjstrand said:
“According to FIFA’s regulations and code of ethics, no player may directly or indirectly own shares in betting companies.
"I stick to the facts and can only account for what applies to all nations and players who will participate in the World Cup.”
Download the brand new OTB Sports App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to Off The Ball's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
