Chelsea set to battle Man United in the race to sign €80m star

Chelsea set to battle Man United in the race to sign €80m star Martin Baturina to Chelsea, latest transfer contact and Como’s €80m stance Chelsea have made direct contact with Como over Martin Baturina, with Manchester United also advancing their interest in the Croatia international, according to Caught Offside. At this stage, the situation is described as exploratory rather than advanced, but the early shape of the deal is becoming clearer. Baturina has been tracked by leading clubs for some time and the latest information suggests Chelsea and United are currently the most active in gathering detail on his availability. Tottenham, Aston Villa and Newcastle United are also watching developments, while Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig could yet become part of the conversation if the market shifts. Chelsea contact puts Baturina deal into focus The key issue is valuation. Como are not actively looking to sell, yet the message reaching interested clubs is that a deal could be possible at around €80m. That number has not been embraced so far by Chelsea or United, with market feedback indicating that suitors rate the player closer to €60m. Photo IMAGO That creates a notable gap, and one that will need serious movement from one side or the other before negotiations can gather real momentum. As one source put it: “Baturina is well-liked by the recruitment staff of Chelsea and Man United.” The same update added, “They’ve been pushing for this deal for a while and early discussions have taken place with Como. There’s definitely the sense that they’d sell for the right price, but we’re a long way from an agreement as there’s at least a €20m gap in valuation between the parties at the moment.” That assessment feels important. It places Chelsea firmly in the frame, while also underlining that admiration and intent do not automatically lead to a breakthrough. Martin Baturina profile and price gap Baturina, 23, is not agitating for an exit. Even so, there is a strong sense that he sees himself ready for the next step. Sources indicate he has “confidence in his ability” and “ambition to play at the highest level”, which points to a player open to a major move if the right club and financial terms align. His profile explains the demand. Baturina has earned praise for his composure in tight areas, his ability to connect phases of play and the intelligence of his passing. He has even been compared to Luka Modric, which is a lofty reference point, though more in style than status at this stage. His output is also solid. Since the start of last season, he has recorded 13 goal contributions, made up of 9 goals and 4 assists in 38 appearances for Como. Within Cesc Fabregas’ system, he has become a central figure, helping dictate rhythm and unlock space higher up the pitch. Como transfer stance may shape Chelsea plans There is another layer here. Como are also fielding interest in other key players and there will be understandable reluctance to dismantle too much of the squad in one window. That could harden their stance on Baturina, particularly if they believe Premier League demand will eventually force a higher offer. For Chelsea, the attraction is obvious. A technically gifted attacking midfielder with room to grow, strong tactical education and confidence in possession suits the profile modern elite clubs are chasing. The question is whether Chelsea see Baturina as worth pushing towards €80m, or whether they will hold their line and trust the market to soften Como’s position. For now, this remains one to watch closely. Contact has been made, interest is genuine and the player is admired. The next step depends on whether valuation becomes a bridge or a barrier. Our View This is the sort of report that immediately grabs attention because the fit makes sense. Chelsea need more craft between the lines, more control in crowded attacking zones and more players who can receive under pressure without the whole move breaking down. Baturina sounds like exactly that type. The €80m valuation is where the excitement gets checked. That is premium money for a player with promise and quality, but not yet the body of work to remove all doubt. If the internal valuation really sits closer to €60m, that feels a far more sensible starting point. There is no issue paying big fees when the profile is elite, but discipline matters and Chelsea have to be certain on role, ceiling and adaptation. What stands out most is that he is not forcing the move. That usually says something positive about temperament. Add in the quotes about “confidence in his ability” and “ambition to play at the highest level”, and it paints the picture of a player who believes he belongs on a bigger stage without creating noise around his current club. If Chelsea are serious, this could become one of those deals that develops quietly and then suddenly accelerates. The talent is obvious, the demand is real and the price will decide everything. At the right number, this feels worth pursuing hard. Source: Caught Offside