Abidal had surgery almost 12 months ago to remove a tumour from his liver and the France international now requires a transplant.
A club statement read: “In the coming weeks, the player will undergo a liver transplant.
“The transplant was an option which was indicated from the start of his treatment a year ago.
“At the express wish of the player, the club requests the utmost respect for the right to privacy and confidentiality.”
