Leeds United 'propose talks' over Como playmaker Martin Baturina as Fabrizio Romano issues update
Leeds United have reportedly made contact with Como regarding playmaker Martin Baturina.
The 22-year-old was linked with Leeds back in the summer of 2024, when he was still in the books of Dinamo Zagreb in his native Croatia.
It was suggested the Whites were knocked back in their efforts to secure his signature and Baturina eventually left Croatia in June this year.
He was lured to Italy by Como, who handed the attacking midfielder a five-year deal following their 10th-placed finish in the Serie A table.
Martin Baturina claim
According to reporter Fabrizio Romano, Baturina has again been the subject of interest from West Yorkshire.
Speaking on his Italian YouTube channel, Romano has claimed Leeds have reached out regarding the possibility of a mid-season switch.
However, it has been suggested Como are holding firm and not looking to send Baturina to Elland Road.
Fabrizio Romano speaks
Romano said: “Baturina is a player Como still wants to focus on, they’re not thinking about a January exit. I’ll tell you the behind-the-scenes story. In the last few days, Leeds has been in touch, the teams are starting to move.
“Leeds has proposed opening talks with Como and the player’s agents about a possible transfer, even a permanent one. Leeds would have practically repaid Baturina to Como.
“The response I understand from both Como and the player was ‘no, thanks’. Baturina wants to stay at Como, he believes in the project Como is happy with Baturina, with how he trains, the potential he has.
“Baturina continues to work hard, but the door has been closed for Leeds. In short, it also marks some clarity regarding the rumours that have been circulating about the future of the Croatian midfielder.”
Baturina may have only joined Como in the summer but the emergence of transfer speculation is not particularly surprising.
He has been afforded just one Serie A start, with six of his seven league appearances having come from the bench.