Man Utd transfer: Reds given price for 'new Modric' who offers multiple attacking options

Manchester United are closing in on the "new Luka Modric" and this is how he would fit into Michael Carrick's system.

Martin Baturina, 23, is impressing all before him with his attacking displays from midfield where he combines technical skill and pace.

He helped Como to fourth in Serie A last season and showed he is ready to take over the mantle from Modric as Croatia's talisman at the World Cup.

Baturina hit a stunning goal for Croatia in the group stages which further drew the attention of Premier League clubs with United among them.

For United they need strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new campaign and Baturina would bring added quality.

But United face competition and a current asking price of £65 to £70 million with Como proving in the past to be tough negotiators.

Como President Mirwan Suwarso though hasn't ruled out the possibility of a move.

"If there's an offer, we'll listen. If we like it, we'll accept, but we're not afraid to refuse," he told Italian media.

While Baturina is keeping his feet on the ground saying of a move to the Premier League: "I don't know, it's written everywhere. I don't pay much attention to it. The most important thing is to play well. Everything comes with that."

His ability to attack from midfield, his array of passes and shooting ability have understandably drawn comparisons with Modric and Baturina understands this.

He said: "I don't think there will ever be another Modrić. We have different styles. But I probably share some qualities with him, that’s why people make the comparison."

The Croatia international joined Como from Dinamo Zagreb last summer and enjoyed an impressive first campaign in Serie A after settling quickly into life in Italy.

Baturina finished the season with eight goals and four assists in 34 appearances, helping Cesc Fabregas' side secure Champions League qualification.

United face competition from Tottenham and Aston Villa for the versatile midfielder, who is capable of playing on the left wing, as a No.10, through the middle or in central midfield.

It means he could fit into the United side fulfilling many different roles although the most natural would be either combining with either Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes in the centre of midfield or playing on either wing.

Baturina has said how much he learnt over the past season at Como.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, he said: "Playing in Serie A taught me a lot about discipline, concentration and consistency.

"It's a league that demands a lot from a midfielder like me, both tactically and mentally. I think this season has allowed me to grow considerably as a player."

United's resurgence under Michael Carrick and Champions League football put them in a prime position to sign Baturina but they will have to dig deep in their pockets.

Reports suggest Aston Villa have already failed with a bid worth around €55 million (£46.6m), while Como are believed to value Baturina at closer to €80m (£68m). The midfielder remains under contract until 2030.

Any move for Baturina would inevitably raise further questions over Marcus Rashford's long-term future at Old Trafford.

The England international is due to return to United after Barcelona opted not to make his loan spell permanent following the end of last season.

Although Rashford produced some encouraging displays during the World Cup, United would prefer to sell him this summer.

With the club already strengthening other areas of the squad and continuing to monitor attacking reinforcements, the pursuit of another versatile forward would add further competition for places.