Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has been hit by a new injury that will extend his lay-off beyond the New Year, sports magazine Football Italia reported on Wednesday.

Buffon sustained a toe injury during training and will not be ready for action until the Palermo match on January seventh.

The new injury is a setback for the international keeper who just returned to action two weeks ago after being sidelined since the beginning of the season.

Buffon underwent surgery after tearing shoulder ligaments in a pre-season friendly against AC Milan.

Christian Abbiati, on loan from Milan, has been the first choice for Juventus boss Fabio Capello since the tart of the season.

Juventus have held their own without Buffon so far, leading the Serie A table with a ten point lead over second placed Inter Milan.

The Bianconeri also secured their place in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 after winning their Group A.