The 24-year-old, who is topping the Bundesliga scoring charts, damaged cruciate ligaments in his right knee during an exhibition against Hamburg on Wednesday.

Later on, the marksman underwent MRI scan, which confirmed that will be out of action for the next six months.

"His absence will be a huge weakness for us as we have lost one of our most important players," Hoffenheim general manager Jan Schindelmeiser said.

The Bosnian international has been at his best this season, having bagged 18 goals only in 17 matches to help surprise package Hoffenheim maintain a splendid run.

The newly-promoted side finished 2008 on top of the Bundesliga table, several goals ahead of defending champions Bayern Munich, who lie second.