It is paramount that Leeds United sign an attacking midfielder of high quality this summer, with Daniel Farke’s side needing quality in their forward line.
The playmaker role is perhaps one of the most obvious problems for Leeds United to find a solution to, given Brenden Aaronson has been a frustration to fans this season.
That is because he has just 11 goal involvements in spite of the team scoring 95 in the Championship. His wasteful nature is something which Leeds cannot afford next season, with transitional moments on the counter-attack likely to be vital in the top flight.
Attacks can often die at the feet of the USMNT international, highlighting the need to source a better player. That is not the only area of the pitch which will require major surgery, however, with signings needed all across the park to make Leeds a competitive Premier League outfit.
Photo by Mateusz Slodkowski/Getty Images
Photo by Mateusz Slodkowski/Getty Images
Daniel Farke wanted a No.10 last season and Emi Buendia was one option Leeds explored signing. Nothing materialised but an ambitious bid was submitted for Dinamo Zagreb’s Martin Baturina.
He is also a set-piece taker but one with open-play creativity, as well as energy and tenacity. The Croatian international Baturina has been linked to Leeds previously, and perhaps a revival of a move this summer could be on the cards.
Competition could be an issue, as Luka Modric wanted Baturina at Real Madrid too. Not only that, but Bayern Munich legend Manuel Neuer has praised Baturina as well.
Fabrizio Romano’s Baturina reveal has sparked conversation once more on his future and Leeds. However, Rudy Galetti of TEAMtalk has outlined Newcastle United’s interest alongside Inter Milan and Fiorentina.
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Newcastle have made a move but Leeds United News understands that the Whites remain keen on Baturina, especially since promotion has been secured and he is now a more viable option.
Leeds are keeping tabs on his situation with Zagreb but there are also numerous options being looked at in terms of acquiring a new attacking midfielder this summer.
The 22-year-old has bags of potential and is arguably the best player in his native country’s top division. That is why interest is mounting at the €20-25 million reported price point from Romano.
Photo by Marko Lukunic/Pixsell/MB Media/Getty Images
Photo by Marko Lukunic/Pixsell/MB Media/Getty Images
Martin Baturina’s goal and assist statistics
Baturina has also been linked to PSG but Leeds could be the perfect move for him to play regular first-team football rather than to take a step too far where he won’t get the minutes he needs to further his development.
Season Appearances Goals Assists
2020/21 2 0 0
2021/22 18 2 4
2022/23 49 6 12
2023/24 51 8 5
2024/25 44 6 13
Croatia: 2023 – now 11 1 1
Martin Baturina stats (all comps)
He is overdue a move to one of Europe’s elite five leagues, with Leeds the perfect move for him in his career. He would represent a sizeable upgrade for the Whites in terms of his quality in possession.
The 22-year-old’s touch and awareness is excellent in tight spaces and he has the passing range to unlock the opposition more frequently than Leeds’ current incumbent.