Leeds United €30m bid for Martin Baturina rejected by Como

Leeds United have made a significant late-January move in the transfer market, submitting a €30m offer plus bonuses for Croatian attacker Martin Baturina — only to see it rejected by Como.

The proposal, reported by Tuttosport, underlines Leeds’ renewed interest in a player they have tracked for several years. Baturina, now 22, has been on the club’s radar since his time at Dinamo Zagreb before completing a high-profile €18m switch to Como in the summer of 2025.

Baturina’s first months in Italy were steady rather than spectacular, but his influence has grown sharply in recent weeks under head coach Cesc Fàbregas. The winger has now made 15 appearances in all competitions this season, contributing six goals, and was a standout performer in Como’s recent win over Lazio — scoring once and providing an assist.

That performance appears to have reignited Premier League interest, with Leeds pushing hard as January enters its final phase.

Despite the size of the bid, Tuttosport report that Como swiftly turned it down, leaving Leeds with “no such luck” in their attempt to prise the winger away mid-season. There has been no indication of the fee Como would accept, suggesting the club are either unwilling to sell at this stage or intent on significantly raising the price.

Fàbregas previously downplayed talk of a January exit, although he stopped short of fully ruling one out — a stance that continues to leave room for speculation.

Having followed Como’s transfer strategy closely this season, there is a growing sense that the club may be using Premier League interest to establish a future benchmark valuation. Similar patterns emerged previously with Nico Paz and Assane Diao when both players hit form, with Como resisting January exits before reassessing in the summer.

Leeds’ name, given their prior links to Baturina, may also serve to underline the player’s rising market value rather than signal an imminent sale.

From Leeds’ perspective, patience may be required. A summer move could prove more feasible, particularly if Daniel Farke’s side secure another season in the Premier League — a factor likely to strengthen their financial and sporting appeal.

Baturina’s technical quality, ability to operate between the lines and growing end product suggest he could adapt well to English football, but timing may yet prove decisive.

Leeds are unlikely to push again before the window closes, with no indication Como are ready to negotiate. Attention may now shift toward maintaining top-flight status and revisiting the deal later in the year.

However, much will depend on Baturina’s continued development and whether Como’s stance softens once the season concludes.

Should Leeds return with an improved bid in the summer if they stay in the Premier League?