Real´s Diarra in France for treatment on knee injury

Real Madrid’s injury-plagued Mali international Mahamadou Diarra has traveled to France for treatment on his right knee, the club said.

Diarra “went to Lyon to be examined by a doctor in whom he has confidence,” the club said.

The sports daily Marca said Wednesday that the 27-year-old defensive midfielder could be sidelined for between two to six months.

The reigning Spanish champions have struggled this season, in part due to a steady stream of injuries suffered by key players, and currently lie in fourth place, six points behind leaders Barcelona.

The club on Thursday presented its new signing, Dutch international striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, seen as a replacement for Ruud van Nistelrooy, who is out until the end of the season after a knee operation.