Real Madrid have announced Gonzalo Higuain will undergo back surgery.
The decision is expected to rule out the Argentina striker for the remainder of this season.
A club statement read: "The persistence of pain and of the herniated disc moved experts to advise surgery as the next step.
"This decision has been accepted by the player, his family and the club.
"The conservative treatment has been good for the player's biomechanics.
"The work done till now will allow for an easier surgical procedure, better post-operational results and a shorter rehabilitation period.
"It has been agreed by all the aforementioned parties that a decision will be reached within the next 48 hours regarding the medical centre where the operation will take place and the surgeon who will perform it."
