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Manchester United and Aston Villa Compete for World Cup Star Martin Baturina as Como Reject £43.4m Offer
Priya Nambiar | June 19, 2026 6:05 AM CST

Manchester United are reportedly keen on signing Como midfielder Martin Baturina, who caught global attention with a spectacular goal for Croatia in their World Cup encounter against England on Wednesday.

Baturina, earning his 20th international cap, unleashed a powerful strike from the edge of the penalty area in the first half to equalise after Harry Kane had given England the lead from the spot.

Despite his contribution, England secured all three points as two goals from Kane and further strikes from Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford ensured a 4-2 win for Thomas Tuchel’s side.

However, Baturina’s performance stood out for Croatia – not only for his goal but also for his overall play – prompting Manchester United to join Aston Villa and Leeds United in expressing interest in the player, described by Sky Sport Italia as a ‘protagonist of the World Cup’.

The midfielder joined Como last summer in a £15.6 million transfer from Dinamo Zagreb and has impressed under head coach Cesc Fabregas in Serie A. In his debut campaign, he registered six goals and three assists from midfield, thriving under the guidance of the former Arsenal and Chelsea star.

Reports earlier this month suggested that Aston Villa had submitted a formal bid for Baturina, believed to be between €50 million and €55 million. Another unnamed Premier League club – potentially Manchester United – have also tabled an offer, with Como now valuing the 23-year-old winger at around €80 million.

According to Sky Sport Italia, the €50 million bid has indeed been lodged, while Leeds had previously attempted to secure his signature a few months ago. Bayern Munich are also said to have made enquiries about the talented Croatian.

Meanwhile, Manchester United have also made formal approaches to sign Crycensio Summerville, who is representing the Netherlands at the World Cup, from relegated West Ham United this summer, according to TEAMtalk.

The report claims that United consider Summerville a prime target for the left-wing position, particularly if Marcus Rashford leaves Old Trafford. Summerville joined West Ham in the summer of 2024 and remains under contract until 2029, with an option to extend for another year.

The ex-Leeds United forward has scored eight goals and provided seven assists in 56 appearances for the Hammers so far in his career.


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