German midfielder Mika Baur is travelling to Glasgow to finalise his transfer to Celtic, with the Scottish champions set to pay SC Paderborn a club-record fee of €8 million including bonuses.
The 22-year-old U-21 international has already agreed terms on a long-term contract running until 2031. Sky Germany reports that the deal follows weeks of intensive negotiations between the clubs, with Paderborn holding firm on their valuation before Celtic met their demands.
Promoted Paderborn anticipate record windfall
Baur established himself as a pivotal figure in Paderborn’s promotion-winning campaign, featuring 32 times in the 2. Bundesliga last season. The midfielder contributed four goals and three assists as the club secured their return to Germany’s top flight.
The anticipated €8 million transfer fee is expected to set a new benchmark for Paderborn, exceeding any previous sale in the club’s history. For a side preparing for life in the Bundesliga, the substantial windfall provides significant resources to strengthen the squad across multiple positions.
Schalke 04 priced out of race
Celtic faced domestic competition for Baur’s signature. FC Schalke 04 had also pursued the midfielder, but the Royal Blues were unable to match the financial package offered by the Scottish Premiership holders.
The 22-year-old offers a blend of technical and tactical attributes that appealed to the recruitment team in Glasgow. During his time in the second tier, Baur demonstrated set-piece quality, creative passing range and defensive diligence—qualities that Celtic believe will translate to the demands of Scottish and European football.
Deal enters final stages
Baur’s presence in Scotland indicates the transfer is approaching completion. The player is expected to undergo medical assessments before the club formally announces the signing, which would tie him to the Hoops for the next seven years.
The move represents a significant career progression for the German youth international, offering immediate access to silverware contention and European competition. For Paderborn, the departure of a key promotion architect is offset by the financial security required to compete at Bundesliga level.