Highly-rated Italian striker Mario Balotelli’s future at Inter Milan is hanging in the balance following a scathing attack from his manager Jose Mourinho.

Former Chelsea boss Mourinho slated substitute Balotelli for his performance in the Nerazzurri’s 1-1 draw with Claudio Ranieri’s Roma in his post-match interview.

"It has been an awful game from everyone," Mourinho told Italian TV.

"Balotelli? In my opinion he came close to a zero rating.

"I didn't like how he played. He is 19 but could have done much better."

The bust-up has lead to increased speculation the youngster will be sold by the outspoken Portuguese coach in the New Year, with the self-proclaimed 'Special One' shocking fans with his public condemnation of the striker.

The developments will be of particular interest to Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger who was heavily linked with a move for the youngster over the summer and is reportedly keen on bringing the 19-year-old to the Emirates Stadium.

Balotelli made his first-team debut for the Italian champions in December 2007 and is considered one of the game’s hottest prospects.

Wenger has been keen to add a striker to his Gunners squad following the summer departure of Emmanuel Adebayor to Manchester City and has been linked for a move for Bordeaux’s Marouane Chamakh.

Balotelli, or 'Super Mario' as he has been nicknamed, may now look for a move away from the San Siro and could welcome a move to North London and the chance of regular first-team football.