MADRID, July 26 (Xinhua) -- Atletico Madrid's preparations for the forthcoming La Liga season have suffered a setback with confirmation that central defender Jose Gimenez will be out of action for over a month.

The Uruguayan stopper has suffered a stress fracture in his tibia, an injury that is likely to leave him out of action for Atletico's league opener at home to Granada. However, he is likely to recover in time for their second game away to Real Betis.

Recent arrival Cesar Azpilicueta would be the natural replacement for Gimenez as central defender, but the former Chelsea defender could have to cover at right-back after Argentina international Nahuel Molina also suffered a muscle injury in pre-season and is doubtful for the start of the new season.

Atletico confirmed on Tuesday that forward Giuliano Simeone will spend next season on loan with recently-promoted Alaves. The son of Atletico coach Diego Simeone impressed last season with nine goals in a loan spell with second division Real Zaragoza, and the 20-year-old will now gain top-flight experience with the Basque side.

Alaves have also made Antonio Blanco's loan from Real Madrid permanent after the Spain Under-21 international impressed during last season's promotion campaign.

Blanco has signed a permanent deal until June 2027, although Real Madrid will retain 50 percent of any sell-on fee. Enditem

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