Leeds want to sign a new midfielder. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
Leeds will aim to seal the deal in January with the aim of giving them the best chance of avoiding relegation from the Premier League. Midfield is considered to be the weakest area of Daniel Farke’s side, so there are moves to address this issue.
Leeds have been linked with a number of midfield signings in recent months, including Piotr Zielinski and Gabriel Sala. They are now eyeing another option, Como and Croatia star Martin Baturina.
Martin Baturina not interested in moving to Leeds
Manager Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Leeds’ interest in Baturina, who previously attracted the attention of Man United. But he said neither Como nor the 22-year-old had any interest in signing for the Elland Road club.
“Baturina is still a player Como want to keep an eye on. They are not thinking about leaving in January. Let’s talk behind the scenes. We have been in contact with Leeds in recent days and the team is starting to move.”
“Leeds proposed to start negotiations with Como and the player’s agent about a possible permanent transfer. Leeds were essentially going to repay Baturina to Como. The response from both Como and the player was ‘no, thank you’. Baturina wants to stay at Como. He believes in this project. Como are happy with Baturina, his training methods and his potential.”
“Baturina continues to work hard, but the door to Leeds has closed. In short, this also provides some clarity on the rumors circulating about the Croatian midfielder’s future.”
Who should Leeds sign in January?
It is a blow for Leeds to end their chances of signing Baturina, but they still have plenty of options open in January. The aforementioned Zielinski and Sara would be acceptable, but neither deal would be easy.
