AC Milan have announced that Diego Lopez will be out of action after succumbing to a persistent knee problem.

The 34-year-old has been struggling with patellar tendinitis in his left knee and Milan have now decided to fully address the issue instead of managing him through games with it.

"During this spell, I've done everything possible to be at my best, sacrificing every day, despite the pain, to be available to the coach," Lopez told the club website.

"Unfortunately the pain persists, so I have to stop and pursue a specific recovery plan. This is the only option to resolve the problem."

Lopez, who joined AC from Real Madrid last year, had started the Rossoneri's first eight Serie A matches of the season, but was absent for the last three.

Sixteen-year-old Gianluigi Donnarumma has started in the Spaniard's absence and helped fifth-placed Milan to three straight victories.