Martin Baturina
Leeds United fans were excited when news emerged in the middle of the January transfer window. In the space of a few days, the club had confirmed a signing and were working on a big move.
The Whites brought in Facundo Buonanotte on loan, after the midfielder ended his loan deal at Chelsea. Leeds were long-term admirers of the midfielder, who turned down a move in the summer. With the Argentine acquired, there were reports of a move for Jorgen Strand Larsen, who was then at Wolves. The Norwegian striker was available for a fee in excess of £40 million.
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The 49ers structured a deal which would have seen Strand Larsen join on a loan with an obligation to buy in the summer. But Wolves wanted the money up front, which ruined the move. The striker eventually joined Crystal Palace, leaving Daniel Farke with just one arrival at the end of the window.
Leeds United could be out of the race for Martin Baturina
Some reports in January also emerged that the Whites were keen on signing Como midfielder Martin Baturina. The Croatian has been a target of the club since the summer, and his first half of the season in Italy had not gone as planned – leaving the door open for a move to Elland Road. Leeds United reportedly offered £26 million for the 23-year old which was rejected.
Tuttomercatoweb are reporting that things have significantly changed since the end of last year, and Baturina is playing his way into content under Cesc Fabregas. The midfielder has three goals and two assists in 2026, and has impressed in the games he has played. If things continue to go this way, then Como would be reluctant to part ways when the summer window comes around.
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Unfortunate for the Whites
Missing out on Baturina could be disastrous for Leeds United; he is a player that would be a great fit for this current team. Now that he is thriving at Como, it will be almost impossible to get him to Elland Road. Another reason why missing out on the Croatian would be a blow is that with Facundo Buonanotte’s current form, the Whites look to have wasted a move for him in January. If they had gotten Baturina through the door, it would have been a much better situation.