AC Milan defender Daniele Bonera is expected to be out of action for three months with a fractured kneecap.

The 32-year-old, who has been with the Italian outfit since 2006, will be on the sidelines for "between 70 and 90 days, excluding complications," according to a statement from Milan.

It is believed that Bonera underwent tests on Sunday, when specialist Professor Herbert Schonhuber advised against surgery.

Bonera, who also has 16 Italian caps to his name, made 17 appearances in all competitions last season.