Soccer: Pele to promote Viagra

Brazilian soccer great Pele is negotiating an advertising deal to convince his countrymen of the benefits of the virility drug Viagra.

Pele's footballing fame, plus his robust health and high-profile private life, mean that pharmaceutical company Pfizer, the world's largest drug maker, may have found the perfect icon for their anti-impotency product.

"In a World Cup year this is a very strong hook [for the product]," said a source with the advertising agency behind the proposed deal.

The 61-year-old Pele has been a busy endorser of products since ending a glittering soccer career. Health sector products on this list include a Brazilian-made anti-depressant and healthcare insurance.