Juventus captain Giorgio Chiellini has been diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee and will require surgery.

The Bianconeri announced the news this evening, as he sustained the injury during today’s training session.

More details will be available after the operation, but this type of injury usually requires at least three to six months out, depending on the severity of the tear.

“During today's training, Giorgio Chiellini sustained a sprain of his right knee,” read a statement.

“The diagnostic tests performed at J|Medical showed a lesion of the anterior cruciate ligament. It will be necessary to have surgery in the coming days.”

It is a serious blow for the reigning champions just hours before their Scudetto showdown with Napoli on Saturday evening.

The 35-year-old defender has often suffered from muscular issues, usually around the calf area, but this is his first real knee ligament injury.

It’s also safe to say having Chiellini out of action for several months means Daniele Rugani’s proposed move to Roma is off, while Merih Demiral is also taken off the market.

The Serie A transfer deadline is on Monday evening, so there could even be a late rush to sign a new centre-back.