When Leeds United boss Daniel Farke wants a specific role in the tactics when it comes to his team, he rarely does otherwise. This season, he kept Sebastiaan Bornauw out of the matchday squad for weeks.
His explanation was that because Leeds played a back four there was no need for there to be two center backs on the bench. Since the switch to the back three however, the Belgian has been seeing some action. Saturday’s game against Derby County could have put him on the bench once again as he was hooked at half time. Bornauw is reportedly looking for a way out, and he could leave this month.
In the Championship season after losing key players in Archie Gray and Georginio Rutter, Farke pleaded with the board to sign Gus Hamer from Sheffield United. To him, he needed a specialist creator in attacking midfield and none of the players in the squad fit the role.
Price tag for Leeds United target Martin Baturina revealed
He eventually used Brenden Aaronson there as the Whites won promotion to the Premier League. Since going up, the Leeds boss has ditched his old system for a midfield three, which means there is no orthodox number 10. However, the need for a creative midfielder in advanced areas has grown as the season has progressed.
Now, Como midfielder Martin Baturina has popped up on the radar of Leeds United. Tuttomercatoweb are reporting that the Whites are interested in a deal for the Croatian, with the Italian side valuing him around £19 million to £21.6 million. Baturina has seen his playing time reduced this season and could be open to a move. His current boss Cesc Fabregas recently described him as a player with ‘immense quality’.
Como man could be an alternative to Gus Hamer
It was reported earlier this week that Sheffield United star Gus Hamer is said to be available for just around £6 million this month. Leeds have a long-standing interest, but the news about Baturina could change the picture.
| Statistic | Gustavo Hamer | Martin Baturina |
|---|---|---|
| Games | 18 | 11 |
| Minutes | 1,152 | 291 |
| Goals | 2 | 2 |
| Assists | 3 | 0 |
| Chances Created | 27 | 6 |
| Big Chances Created | 7 | 0 |
Both midfielders are very good players in their own right, and could be open to a move to Elland Road. However, at this point of the window and considering the club’s PSR, moving for Hamer would be the best choice in the short-term. He understands English football and would not take time to adapt. Baturina’s price tag is higher and the club would have to be sure he adapts from now till the end of the season.
md baturina would be a great signing.at 22 the right age group kees smit, gilberto mora. cb doekhi,/cresswell. strikers, marcos leonardo, samu aghehowa, evan ferguson, semih kiliesoy.