Sergio Aguero out for three months with cardiovascular problem as Barcelona striker begins 'diagnostic and therapeutic process'

The Argentine, who joined on a free transfer from Man City last summer, was taken to hospital after having breathing difficulties during Barca's 1-1 draw with Alaves last weekend.

Aguero was making his first start at Camp Nou since his summer transfer but his evening lasted just 41 minutes.

The 33-year-old reported chest discomfort and appeared to be suffering breathing problems, although he managed to walk from the field as he was replaced by Philippe Coutinho.

A Barca statement on Monday read: "The first team player Sergio Aguero has been subjected to a diagnostic and therapeutic process by Dr Josep Brugada.

"He is unavailable for selection and during the next three months the effectiveness of treatment will be evaluated in order to determine his recovery process.

"The Argentine was taken to hospital for cardiological evaluation on Saturday following the Barca v Alaves game in which the Barca striker felt unwell in the first half and was replaced before half-time by Philippe Coutinho."

Speaking ahead of Barca's Champions League Group E match against Dynamo Kiev in Ukraine on Tuesday, caretaker coach Sergi Barjuan said Aguero remains "calm".

Barjuan said: "I talked to him and he's calm. He's confined to his room but considering the situation he's calm."

Aguero's former team Manchester City, for whom he scored a record-breaking 260 goals, sent a message of support and wished him well, as did former team-mate Raheem Sterling.

Sterling tweeted: "Stay strong my brother @aguerosergiokun, we're all with you. Get well soon."