Celtic close in on Mika Baur after major breakthrough in £7m transfer talks

The 22-year-old midfielder has been on the Hoops’ radar for several weeks, but the newly-promoted Bundesliga side have remained firm over their valuation despite Baur entering the final year of his contract.

As recently as Tuesday, Celtic were still attempting to find an agreement, with a fee of around £7million being discussed.

However, there has now been significant movement, with Baur on his way to Glasgow as Celtic look to put the finishing touches on the transfer.

Reports from Germany via The Herald state the midfielder was absent from Paderborn training after being granted permission to hold talks over a move, with a medical potentially the next step.

Baur’s willingness to join Celtic has never appeared to be an issue during negotiations. Paderborn, though, have been reluctant to lose one of their standout performers so soon after securing promotion to the Bundesliga.

The midfielder was named the club’s Player of the Season for 2025/26 after contributing four goals and six assists, while his performances also earned him recognition with Germany’s Under-21 side.

After weeks of resistance from Paderborn, Celtic’s persistence now appears set to pay off as Martin O’Neill closes in on another summer addition.