Mario Balotelli latest: Italy striker 'desperate' for a move from AC Milan to Arsenal

Maverick striker is furious he was blamed for Italy's World Cup exit

Mario Balotelli is being linked with a big-money move to Arsenal (Getty Images)

Mario Balotelli has told AC Milan he wants to leave the club and join Arsenal.

The striker is furious he has been blamed for Italy getting knocked out of the World Cup, according to the Daily Mail.

Balotelli wants to leave Italy because he remains a target for Ultras, who have racially abused him in the past.

Despite some issues he had in England, he recognises that England, and especially London, is more cosmopolitan than Italy.

The 23-year-old is keen to push through a move to the Emirates with Arsenal also chasing other strikers, such as Real Madrid youngster Alvaro Morata.

Speaking on Saturday, Balotelli's agent Mino Raiola said Balotelli was "sad" in Milan.

"Mario is sad, desperate," Raiola toldGazzetta dello Sport.

"Only Galliani has defended him while the FIGC (Italian football federation) remains absolutely silent."

Last week Milan director Barbara Berluscoin said she believed Balotelli was "replaceable" and would be willing to sell the striker for around €37m (£30m).