Man United must beat Real Madrid in the race to sign Croatian starlet

Manchester United made a statement during the summer transfer window by beating Real Madrid to the signature of Lille wonderkid Leny Yoro.

Yoro was tipped to secure a transfer to the Bernabeu, but the Red Devils convinced him to join them.

Journalist Patrick Berger now reports that United and Madrid are vying to sign Croatian starlet Martin Baturina from Dinamo Zagreb.

Madrid midfielder Luka Modric has reportedly urged Los Blancos to consider a move for his compatriot.

Baturina would be a superb long-term signing

The 21-year-old is one of the best attacking midfielders in Croatian football. He had a fine 2023/24 season, making 17 goal contributions.

Baturina has started the new campaign well, weighing in with five assists in eight appearances.

The youngster was part of Zagreb’s 9-2 Champions League humbling at Bayern Munich this week, but he was hailed as a ‘strong player‘ by Manuel Neuer.

Baturina’s passing accuracy was 92 percent at the Allianz Arena. He lost possession on just six occasions, drawing two fouls and winning three duels.

The Croatian should get better with age and experience. United could see him as an understudy to Bruno Fernandes before establishing himself as a starter.

Leeds United made a stunning £25 million offer on deadline day for Baturina last month, but the player had no intention of moving to the Championship.

His price may increase in the ongoing season. Zagreb could hold out for £40m with United and Madrid interested in him.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com.