Football icon Diego Maradona was buried without his diseased heart to prevent fans from stealing it, according to a top doctor who also works as a journalist.

Nelson Castro, 66, a doctor and writer from Argentina hosts a political debate show on TV channel Todo Noticias called 'El Juego Limpio' - which translates to mean 'Fair Game'.

And while appearing on another show, 'La Mesa de Juana Viale', Castro was speaking about his new book 'Diego's Health' focusing on former footballer Maradona.

During his appearance on the show, Castro claimed the football legend had been buried without his heart after it was learned there was a plan to steal it.