La Gazzetta dello Sport report that Milan forward M'Baye Niang will miss three months of action after breaking a metatarsal during Milan's pre-season clash against Bayern Munich.
Milan coach Sinisa Mihajlovic confirmed news of the injury but refused to comment on a possible return date.
The 20-year-old enjoyed a fruitful loan spell at Genoa last term, netting five times in 19 appearances while laying on two assists.
A crucial blow for the youngster
Niang's confidence has been sapped in recent seasons and his impressive goal return while at Genoa last season was enough for Mihajlovic to persuade the youngster to remain at Milan for his inaugural campaign on the touchline.
The arrivals of Carlos Bacca and Luiz Adriano may have knocked Niang down the pecking order, but the Frenchmen's ability to play as a seconda punta in Mihajlovic's 4-3-1-2 system has made several at Milan sit up and take notice.
It now appears that Niang will face a considerable battle to usurp the pair when he returns from injury, with the season having settled into its rhythm.
In a statement on the club's official website, Milan confirmed that Niang had "fractured the fifth metatarsal bone in his right foot". The statement added that "in the coming days, the structure and timing of his treatment will be decided."
Missing key fixtures
Should the initial estimation of Niang's absence hold true, the 20-year-old will miss key fixtures to begin the new season.
Milan meet arch-rivals Inter in the Derby della Madonnina on matchday three, where Milan could lay a marker for the remainder of the season.
Mihajlovic's side also face a tricky trip to Genoa three weeks later -- a side who completed the double over the Rossoneri last term -- before they host a Napoli side managed by the eccentric Maurizio Sarri.