Martin Baturina: Man Utd and Chelsea contact Como, report claims

Manchester United and Chelsea have both made direct contact with Como over Martin Baturina, according to a report from CaughtOffside.

It’s early days, and the report doesn’t mention a formal bid. But the interest is worth following as Mauricio Pochettino settles in at Old Trafford.

The report relies on unnamed sources, and no deal has been agreed. Here is what has been reported, what Baturina could cost and where he might fit at United.

Martin Baturina and Man Utd: what is being reported

The story comes from CaughtOffside’s Daily Briefing, written by Mark Brus. It says United and Chelsea have both spoken to Como to find out more about the player. Tottenham, Aston Villa and Newcastle are also said to be monitoring him closely, and Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig could join the race later.

An unnamed source quoted in the report said: “Baturina is well-liked by the recruitment staff of Chelsea and Man United. They’ve been pushing for this deal for a while and early discussions have taken place with Como.”

The same report contains a big warning. Another source said: “We’re a long way from an agreement as there’s at least a €20m gap in valuation between the parties at the moment.”

How much would Baturina cost?

According to the report, Como would want around €80m, roughly £67m, before serious talks begin, and the interested clubs value him nearer €60m. Como are said to be unwilling to sell, and the 23-year-old Croatia international isn’t pushing to leave.

CaughtOffside says Baturina has nine goals and four assists in 38 appearances for Como since the start of last season. United have seen Como up close too, and it wasn’t a pleasant experience. They lost 4-1 in the Champions League last month, as our Como 4-1 Manchester United report showed.

Why the timing is interesting

The report doesn’t link the interest to Bruno Fernandes. But it’s hard not to notice the timing. The captain has rejected a second contract offer, as we covered in our Bruno Fernandes contract story, though the club hold a key option. A creative midfielder from Serie A would at least give United options in that area.

Is an attacking midfielder really the priority?

This is where caution is needed. United are 18th with eight points from ten games, and much of the criticism has been aimed at the defence. Phil Neville has warned that United’s back four will get them relegated.

The reported contact suggests United are exploring their options. It does not establish that Baturina is a replacement for Fernandes, a Pochettino target or a January priority. For now, the reported valuation gap is the clearest obstacle.

You can follow every rumour and deal before the window opens on our transfers hub.