Inter Milan legend Sandro Mazzola is of the opinion that striker Mario Balotelli is being given a raw deal by the media.

Balotelli has been caught in a media furore after being spotted in the crowd during AC Milan's Champions League clash with Manchester United.

This has led to instant speculation that the 19-year-old could be on the verge of a move to Inter's city rivals AC Milan.

Mazzola however has dimissed all such reports as gross exaggeration.

"It does not feel right making a huge commotion about this. It has been exaggerated," he told tuttomercatoweb

"He belongs to a generation where the players of Inter do not go to see Milan and vice versa. He has already told the papers he supports Milan, this is why the fans are upset."

Balotelli has been involved in a few run-ins with manager Jose Mourinho - who questioned his intelligence after some sloppy performances. In the wake of these comments the youngster has also been linked with a move to Manchester City.

Mazzola has called upon Inter to retain Balotelli, saying "I don't agree with selling him as you must keep the good players."