Updated 12/11/2024 19:57
Real Madrid have reportedly missed out in their transfer race to sign Dinamo Zagreb Martin Baturina.
Baturina has emerged as a key player in Zagreb alongside a developing role for the Croatia national team. His calmness in midfield has drawn plenty of comparisons with Los Blancos icon Luka Modric with the 21-year-old tipped as his long term successor.
🚨🇩🇿 NEW: Algeria and Hertha Berlin forward Ibrahim Maza (18) is being closely monitored by Atlético Madrid.
He is on Atleti’s list of players who could become a priority for next season. The club is aware of his potential and knows it needs to act quickly to secure him ahead of… pic.twitter.com/AcvmkSXjEj
— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) November 12, 2024
However, as per reports from Sky Germany via Diario AS, he will not be filling Modric’s role in Madrid, after opting against a move to the Spanish capital. It is believed that Baturina would prefer to move to La Liga ahead of other destinations.
Real Madrid reportedly offered a five year contract to Baturina, but with the option of sending him on a two year loan to another La Liga side, which has apparently scuppered a deal. Since, Sky DE (via Sport) have added that Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are also interested in Baturina. The Blaugrana are one of a number of clubs looking at him, but currently do not plan to move for him.
Positions between Barcelona and Ronald Araújo are much closer than they were a couple of months ago. Everything indicates that the Uruguayan will stay, and renew his contract. With Frenkie de Jong there's pessimism. @sport
— barcacentre (@barcacentre) November 12, 2024
The situation could be revisited in 2025, but Baturina is expected to demand a greater first team role, with concerns over the examples of young players who have recently seen their game time reduced after joining Real Madrid.
