Leeds’ €30m-plus offer for Como playmaker Martin Baturina was rejected, leaving Daniel Farke without a creative upgrade. For bettors, expect Leeds to struggle breaking down low blocks — consider backing under 2.5 goals or draw/low-scoring markets in upcoming fixtures.
Leeds’ €30m Bid for Martin Baturina Rejected by Como
Leeds United made a bold January move for Como midfielder Martin Baturina, offering €30m plus bonuses for a permanent transfer. Como turned the offer down and rejected a loan-with-obligation approach from Fiorentina, with manager Cesc Fabregas making clear he does not want to lose the 22-year-old.
Why Baturina Was a Priority for Daniel Farke
At 22, Baturina is already a Croatia international and has emerged as Como’s primary playmaker. He has registered four goals and three assists in 2026 and has started multiple consecutive league games, stepping up while teammate Assane Diao remains sidelined. Leeds identified him as the kind of technical number 10 they currently lack.
Tactical Consequences for Leeds’ Midfield
Leeds’ midfield base — led by Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev — offers work-rate and defensive cover, while Ao Tanaka provides energy and Facundo Buonanotte flashes creativity on loan. Still, the squad lacks a permanent, high-end creator to unlock teams that defend deep. That shortfall has contributed to a high number of draws this season and could blunt Leeds’ attacking threat in the run-in.
Squad Options and Transfer Window Outlook
Missing out on Baturina forces Farke to extract more from Brenden Aaronson and hope Buonanotte stays fit. The club will need to identify alternative targets with a similar profile or adjust tactics to generate chances without a true number 10. Given Baturina’s rising value, Leeds may have lost a realistic opportunity to buy a long-term creative solution within budget.
Betting Implications
Without a new creative midfielder, Leeds are likelier to struggle against compact opponents.
Punters should consider markets that reflect lower-scoring outcomes: under 2.5 goals, draw odds, or Leeds failing to score in matches versus defensive sides.
If Leeds bring in a different attacking signing quickly, markets could swing — watch transfer updates closely before placing long-term bets.
Official: Como buy teenage talent Lahdo for €18m fee
TuttoSport, via Sport Witness, first reported a major January move from Leeds United, pursuing Como’s midfield star Martin Baturina. The Italian outlet confirmed the club offered €30m plus bonuses...
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