Martin Baturina transfer – is the young Croatian worth it for Man Utd?: Whisper+ verdict

Latest developments

• Manchester United want to sign Dinamo Zagreb's Martin Baturina.
• The 21-year-old has also caught the eye of Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
• Baturina has already won seven caps for Croatia.

Whisper+ analysis

Authenticity (3/5): TEAMtalk can be trusted somewhat

Croatian youngster Martin Baturina has been attracting the attention of some of Europe's biggest clubs and has led Man Utd to put in an offer to Dinamo Zagreb to sign him.

That is the word of TEAMtalk.com, who claim United scouts have been impressed by the attacking midfielder, and INEOS want to put a bid in in January. Baturina could announce himself to British audiences this week, as he is in the Croatia squad to face Scotland at Hampden Park.

Value (3/5): Reasonably high price for the league

The Croatian league produces a never-ending conveyor belt of talent that is usually available at a very affordable price. At €20 million, Baturina's valuation is above average for a player in his homeland, which would have been driven by his recent appearances for the national team, and his two goal-involvements in four UEFA Champions League appearances.

However, we cannot rule out a lower price being accepted, given the need for clubs like Dinamo to cash in on their products while they have the chance.

Suitability (2.5/5): Untested in the major leagues

He may have been doing well on the European and international stage, but the fact remains that Baturina will be a complete novice when it comes to playing in a major league week in, week out.

That said, plenty of his compatriots have excelled in similar fashion, while his ability to score and assist is exactly what United need to inject right now.

Upgrade? (3/5): A useful squad player

It is clear that Man Utd's forward play needs to click into gear, and fresh blood like Baturina could be exactly what the Red Devils are looking for.

In terms of the attacking midfield position specifically, Baturina can only expect to play second fiddle to Bruno Fernandes, and that is only if Mason Mount is shown the exit door at Old Trafford in the near future.

Logic (4/5): Confident player has outgrown Zagreb

Clearly Baturina is too big for the Croatian league, and the real surprise is that he has not already moved on. A switch to Manchester will be a learning curve, but given his international experience, not necessarily a culture shock.

Whisper+ verdict: 15.5/25

If United can hold off the competition and get Baturina for below is market value, then it is worth them gambling on a player who they won't lose too much sleep over if it doesn't work out. It would indeed be a gamble, but Baturina could end up being the signing of the window.