Adriano Galliani plays down Mario Balotelli rumours

AC Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani has quelled suggestions that Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli could join the club.

The 22-year-old has been strongly linked with a return to Italy since departing Inter in 2010, with the Italian making no secret of his fondness for Milan.

Galliani has refused to entertain rumours that the Italian club will move for the striker, who was in action for Italy on Tuesday.

"Tonight I saw a good Italy. Balotelli is a player I like a lot, but some players are unreachable for Italian clubs. They cost too much and earn too much for us," he told Rai Sport.

Balotelli has scored four goals in 14 games for his country.