Leeds United shown what they could've won as Martin Baturina torments England

Leeds United fans may have had mixed feelings watching England beat Croatia on Wednesday.

After waiting almost a week, the tournament finally got underway for the Three Lions.

Winning 4-2 on the night, goals from Harry Kane (two), Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford would seal three points.

But Thomas Tuchel's side would be pegged back twice, with Martin Baturina and Petar Musa scoring in the first half.

Baturina is a name that the Whites and Daniel Farke will remember well, having previously held interest in the forward.

And after his display on the biggest stage, the West Yorkshire outfit may just have some regrets.

Martin Baturina stars for Croatia as England pushed all the way

The final scoreline would reflect what was a more comfortable second half for England.

But the first half was anything but that, with Zlatko Dalic's side frustrating England for large periods.

When they were able to get the ball in the final third, 23-year-old Baturina would be the main source of inspiration.

With 41 touches, he would complete 25 passes, while he created one chance.

Always looking to make something happen, he remained positive in possession, and provided his biggest moment of the first half just after 30 minutes when he fired home in stunning fashion.

As reported by Fabrizio Romano in January, Serie A outfit Como turned down a proposal from Leeds in December.

Across 29 appearances, the attacking midfielder scored six times and registered two assists, with the Croatian considered untouchable by Como at the time.

Should he go on to have a strong World Cup, Leeds may just wish that they were able to bring him in at the start of the year, with a performance on the biggest stage surely set to open the eyes of Europe's elite, while he is already valued at £45million.

Leeds must have transfer target in mind to secure future progression

Now, it is unlikely that Baturina will be moving to Leeds given both his valuation, and potential form at the World Cup.

But the sign of a strong and forward thinking mid-table club in the Premier League, is a club able to find these talents before they hit the big time.

Leeds' recruitment last summer followed a common sense approach, with proven talent coming through the door at Elland Road.

The Whites will have to be more forward thinking, and attract these talents at a cheaper rate, as seen with the likes of Brighton and Bournemouth in recent years.

Leeds are a huge club, with an interesting project, but to further that, Farke will have to begin future-proofing the side with the next generation of talent.