Celtic intensify pursuit of Paderborn midfielder Mika Baur

Celtic Football Club are in the final stages of negotiations to sign 22‑year‑old German midfielder Mika Baur from newly promoted Bundesliga side SC Paderborn. Baur, who helped Paderborn gain promotion with ten goal contributions last season, has already agreed personal terms with the Scottish champions, but Paderborn have set a €5 million fixed fee, higher than Celtic’s earlier €3.5 million offer plus bonuses. The German club has left Baur out of its pre‑season squad, underscoring the player’s desire to move. At the same time Celtic are pursuing World Cup winger Haissem Hassan, the 24‑year‑old who impressed for Egypt and Real Oviedo, with discussions ongoing over a transfer fee. Manager Martin O’Neill, who already secured centre‑forward Kasper Hogh for a club‑record £11 million, is aiming to reinforce midfield and attack before the new season.