Serie A outfit Como have successfully struck a €25 million agreement to secure Croatian sensation Martin Baturina from Dinamo Zagreb, bolstering their ambitious resurgence in Italian football. Como’s meteoric rise in Italian football has taken another major leap, with renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano confirming the club has reached full agreement to sign Martin Baturina.
The 22-year-old playmaker is poised to become a key figure in Cesc Fabregas’ exciting project, with personal terms agreed and a medical imminent. With a six-year contract until 2030 already inked, Como have beaten stiff competition from Premier League clubs to land one of Croatia’s brightest midfield prospects.
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Ambitious Como Outbid Premier League Interest
Baturina’s profile has been steadily rising over the past couple of seasons. With 12 international appearances for Croatia under his belt, the technically gifted midfielder produced a standout campaign for Dinamo Zagreb last term, notching four goals and 10 assists across 33 league fixtures.
His influence in midfield was undeniable despite Dinamo narrowly missing out on domestic glory, finishing level on points with Rijeka but losing the title on goal difference. That form had alerted English sides Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest, both of whom expressed strong interest. However, Como’s persuasive project and vision ultimately won Baturina over.
Backed by wealthy Indonesian ownership, Como have been steadily building a squad capable of pushing up the Serie A table. After finishing 10th last season under the guidance of former Spain international Fabregas, the club is making significant strides both on and off the pitch.
Financial Structure of the Deal
The financial package presented by Como demonstrates calculated ambition. While Dinamo Zagreb had originally valued Baturina at around €30 million, Como’s final offer consists of €17-18 million upfront, with an additional €7 million contingent on bonuses and performance-based incentives, bringing the full value close to €25 million.
Interestingly, Baturina is not regarded as a direct replacement for Nico Paz, as some had speculated. Sources close to the club suggest that this acquisition is part of a broader strategy to strengthen depth and versatility in midfield. The potential for Baturina to play alongside Paz remains open, particularly with Real Madrid retaining a buy-back clause on the Argentine talent for 2025 or 2026.
Cesc Fabregas at the Helm Amid Interest From Germany
The appointment of Cesc Fabregas last year breathed new life into Como’s aspirations, and despite reported interest from Bundesliga heavyweights Bayer Leverkusen—before their eventual hiring of Erik ten Hag—and RB Leipzig, the Spaniard remains fully committed to the Italian club.
Como’s proactive recruitment strategy has already seen them invest €11 million on defenders Alex Valle and Ignace Van der Brempt following successful loan spells. Securing Baturina further signals their ambition to not merely survive in Serie A but challenge established names in the coming seasons.
Baturina’s Journey and Growing Reputation
What makes this move particularly intriguing is the meteoric rise in Baturina’s valuation. Only last year, his name circulated in connection with Serie A giants Inter Milan and Fiorentina, with a reported asking price of just €15 million at that time.
His rapid development over the past 12 months, including his consistent displays in European competition with Dinamo Zagreb, has seen his reputation skyrocket. Securing Baturina now, at a time when his market value is climbing, represents shrewd business by Como’s leadership.
Como’s Vision for the Future
By securing Baturina, Como have further underlined their commitment to long-term planning. This move positions them as a potential disruptor in Serie A, moving beyond their status as mere mid-table dwellers.
Should Real Madrid opt to allow Nico Paz another season at Como, fans could witness an enticing midfield partnership between two of Europe’s most promising young talents, operating under the guidance of one of modern football’s most intelligent midfield minds in Fabregas.
For now, Martin Baturina prepares to embark on the next chapter of his burgeoning career, as Como continue writing an increasingly ambitious script in Italian football’s top tier.
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FAQs
Who is Martin Baturina?
Martin Baturina is a Croatian midfielder, formerly of Dinamo Zagreb, with 12 caps for Croatia. Known for his creativity and technical prowess, he scored four goals and provided 10 assists last season.
How much did Como pay for Baturina?
Como’s agreement with Dinamo Zagreb is worth €25 million, structured as €17-18 million upfront and €7 million in bonuses.
Why did Baturina choose Como over Premier League offers?
The Croatian talent preferred Como’s long-term project and the opportunity to work under Cesc Fabregas, despite interest from Newcastle and Nottingham Forest.
Will Martin Baturina replace Nico Paz at Como?
No, Baturina is not considered a direct replacement. If Real Madrid retains Paz at Como for another season, the two could form a dynamic midfield partnership.
What are Como’s ambitions in Serie A?
With strong backing, strategic signings, and Fabregas at the helm, Como aim to challenge higher up the Serie A table and establish themselves as a serious force.
