"The surgery will be done by specialist Dr. Van Dijk in Amsterdam," read a statement carried by Real Madrid's official website.

The Spanish giants did not clarify how long the Dutchman will be out of action.

However, according to Spanish daily Marca, Van Nistelrooy could be sidelined until the end of the season.

Van Nistelrooy's season has been blighted by a series of injury problems. He scored 12 goals so far this season, one short of Real's top scorer Raul.