Madrid, Feb 3 (IANS): Spanish BBVA Primera Liga club Real Sociedad confirmed that Mexican striker Carlos Vela will almost certainly miss the rest of the season after breaking the meniscus ligament in his right knee.

Vela was forced to limp out of his side's 1-4 defeat away to Real Madrid Saturday afternoon after less than 15 minutes into the game as he appeared to fall badly on the pitch at the Santiago Bernabeu, reports Xinhua.

He underwent tests Sunday and Monday and the club confirmed that their top scorer with seven goals this season has suffered a serious injury.

"He suffered a twisted right knee and the examination which has been completed show the existence of a torn internal meniscus ligament," said the statement issued by his club Monday night, which confirms Vela will need an operation.

"After speaking to the relevant specialists in order to evaluate the best treatment, we have decided to decided it is best to operate," said the club.

Vela's injury is a huge blow for Real Sociedad coach David Moyes given that it happened less than 24 hours after the winter transfer closed in Spain, meaning the club cannot now sign a replacement.

The other two strikers in the Real Sociedad first team squad, have struggled for goals this season with Imanol Agirretxe having only netted twice in the league and summer signing Alfred Finnbogason so far failing to get off the mark.