Real wants Baturina, the price is known.

Martin Baturina, a Croatian midfielder currently playing for Italian Serie A side Como, has emerged as one of the most sought-after talents in European football following his standout performances at the 2026 World Cup. His exceptional playmaking abilities and leadership on the field have drawn significant attention from top clubs across Europe, with Real Madrid reportedly showing serious interest in acquiring the 23-year-old. According to Turkish transfer expert Ekrem Konur, Real Madrid has expressed a strong desire to sign Baturina, who has become a pivotal figure for Croatia's national team. The Spanish giants are believed to have initiated discussions regarding a potential move, although Como, Baturina’s current club, has made it clear that they would not entertain any offers below €80 million. This price tag would make Baturina one of the most expensive Croatian players ever transferred, surpassing previous records set by players such as Luka Modrić and Ivan Perišić. Baturina’s journey in professional football began in Zagreb, where he joined Dinamo Zagreb’s youth academy in 2017. He quickly rose through the ranks and made his first-team debut in May 2021. Over the next two seasons, he became a vital part of the squad, showcasing his technical skills and vision on the ball. His performances earned him recognition beyond Croatia, leading to his eventual transfer to Como in the summer of 2025 for €18 million. At Como, Baturina continued to develop into a key player under manager Xabi Alonso. In the 2025–26 season, he made 34 appearances, scoring eight goals and providing four assists. His contributions were instrumental in helping the club achieve stability in Serie A. However, it was his performance at the World Cup that truly elevated his profile on the global stage. During the tournament, Baturina played a crucial role in Croatia’s campaign, particularly standing out with a memorable goal against England in a match that ended in a 4-2 defeat for Croatia. His ability to control the midfield and create chances for his teammates solidified his reputation as one of the brightest prospects in European football. To date, he has made 23 appearances for the Croatian national team and scored two goals. The interest from Real Madrid comes at a time when the Spanish club is looking to strengthen its midfield options ahead of the new season. With Luka Modrić still a key player, but nearing the end of his career, Real Madrid could see Baturina as a long-term solution to their midfield needs. According to reports, Modrić himself might have personally endorsed Baturina’s qualities to Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, highlighting the young Croatian’s potential to thrive in the club’s high-pressure environment. Despite the growing interest from Real Madrid, other clubs have also shown interest in Baturina. Both Bayern Munich and Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly submitted offers for the midfielder, though Como has dismissed these as insufficient. The Italian club remains firm on their stance, emphasizing that they will only consider selling Baturina once an offer matching or exceeding €80 million is received. As negotiations continue, the situation remains fluid. While Real Madrid appears to be the primary contender, the final decision will depend on whether they can meet Como’s financial demands. For Baturina, this represents a defining moment in his career, potentially marking the beginning of a new chapter in one of Europe’s most prestigious football clubs. Whether he moves to Spain or stays in Italy, his performances have already established him as a rising star in international football.