Italy striker Christian Vieri will have knee surgery in a few days, most likely sidelining him for the World Cup.

Vieri plays for Monaco and a club spokesman Tuesday could not give further details on how long he will be out. But the 32-year-old forward is almost certain to miss the World Cup, which starts June 9.

Vieri twisted his knee March 28. He had transferred from AC Milan to Monaco in January to gain more playing time, with the aim of making Italy's World Cup roster.

He scored three league goals in seven appearances for Monaco. He has 23 goals in 49 games for Italy.