The Italian media write that the 34-year-old defender has suffered ligament damage and looks set to sit out the tournament, which gets under way this weekend.

Cannavaro twisted his ankle after a collision with Giorgi Chiellini, and underwent 10 minutes of treatment on the pitch before being taken to hospital, a statement on the Italian FA's website, www.figc.it, said earlier on Monday.

The Real Madrid player would be a great loss to Azzurri coach Roberto Donadoni if he is ruled out, with Italy set to face Holland in their European opener next Monday before matches against Romania and France.

Cannavaro was instrumental in helping Italy lift the World Cup in Germany two years ago.

Fiorentina defender Alessandro Gamberini has been called up by Italy following the injury to Cannavaro, according to his club.

A statement on their official website, www.acffiorentina, revealed Gamberini's link-up on Monday evening.

"Fiorentina states, in accordance with the Italian national team, that given the injury to Fabio Cannavaro it has been necessary to ask Alessandro Gamberini to join up with the Italian national team for the European Championship.

"Fiorentina send their best wishes to Fabio Cannavaro for a speedy recovery."

Donadoni has until June 8 to call up an official replacement for any injured player.