Embattled FIFA President Gianni Infantino reportedly turns to Donald Trump in bid to protect his position

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is reportedly seeking the support of US President Donald Trump as he faces increasing pressure regarding his position as the head of world football's governing body.

Infantino triggered a significant backlash when The Times first disclosed his controversial plan to sell a $4.2 billion (£3.1bn) stake in FIFA's main tournament to a private equity firm led by Joshua Kushner.

The proposals have since been abandoned following resistance from UEFA, the North, Central America and Caribbean confederation (CONCACAF), and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).

According to The New York Post, Infantino is now reaching out to his most important ally, Donald Trump, in an effort to remain in his role.

The paper reported that Infantino is set to have a call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at 9am EST (2pm BST) as pressure mounts on the FIFA president to step down.

An insider told the Post: 'He wanted to get online with the secretary and talk about how soccer can be a form of soft power for America.

But we all know that it is about job protection.It is not about anything else at this point.'

A second source described Infantino as feeling 'isolated' due to the 'avalanche' of negative attention surrounding his now-failed plans.

'He is looking for allies of note to publicly support him,' they said.

Infantino's alleged final attempt to save his presidency comes just days after Trump flatly denied any knowledge of Infantino's bold sell-off plan.

When asked 'did Mr Infantino speak to you about his proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup?' Trump first replied: 'Who?'

After the question was repeated, the president then added: 'No, I didn't speak to him.'