Pele taken to hospital as he 'develops swelling all over his body'

Football legend Pele has been rushed to hospital amid his ‘worsening’ cancer condition.

ESPN Brasil say the 82-year-old, who is regarded by many as one of the greatest ever football players, was admitted to Albert Einstein Hospital after developing “swelling all over his body”, with growing concerns that his cancer treatment appears to be ineffective.

His daughter said on social media on Wednesday, adding that there was "no surprise or emergency" involved.

"Lots of alarm in the media today concerning my dad's health. He is in the hospital regulating medication," Nascimento wrote.

"There is no emergency or new dire prediction. I will be there for New Years and promise to post some pictures."

The 82-year-old had a tumor removed from his colon in September 2021 and has since been in and out of the hospital for treatment on a regular basis.

ESPN Brasil reported that Pele was having cardiac issues and his medical staff showed concern that his chemotherapy treatment was not having the expected results.

Pele's manager and the Albert Einstein Hospital did not immediately respond to requests for comment.