RIO DE JANEIRO, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Highly rated Fluminense striker Pedro will miss at least six months following confirmation he requires knee surgery, the Brazilian club said on Tuesday.

Pedro has not played since straining his right anterior cruciate ligament during Fluminense's 2-1 loss to Cruzeiro on August 25.

Doctors initially thought he could recover with rest however tests this week have confirmed the need for reconstruction surgery.

"Pedro's knee is ready for the operation, which should take place next week," Fluminense medical director Michael Simoni told reporters.

Pedro, who has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, is considered one of Brazil's most promising strikers, having scored 10 goals in 19 Brazilian Serie A matches this year.

The No. 9 was rewarded for his impressive form by earning a maiden call-up to Brazil's national team for friendlies in the United States earlier this month. However the injury forced him to withdraw from the matches and he was replaced in coach Tite's squad by Everton forward Richarlison.