Celtic and Paderborn in talks over Mika Baur transfer

Celtic's pursuit of German midfielder Mika Baur has intensified, with the player absent from his club's preseason friendly as negotiations between the Scottish champions and SC Paderborn continue. The 22-year-old Germany Under-21 international was not in the squad for Paderborn's match against Southampton on Wednesday, July 29, with the German club citing a cold for his omission. Sources indicate Baur is keen on the move and is awaiting an agreement between the clubs so he can travel to complete a transfer.

Talks have been ongoing for the midfielder, who was instrumental in Paderborn's promotion to the Bundesliga last season. Celtic have seen an initial offer, reported to be around 4 million euros, rejected. The Scottish side subsequently submitted an improved bid understood to be worth 3.5 million euros plus 1 million euros in potential add-ons, bringing the total potential fee closer to Paderborn's reported valuation of 5 million euros. Baur has already agreed to personal terms on a long-term contract with Celtic.

Despite the player's desire to move, Paderborn's sporting director, Sebastian Lange, has publicly downplayed the speculation. He stated that the club has rejected...