Celtic’s Mika Baur negotiations uncovered as Paderborn sporting director speaks out

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Paderborn sporting director Sebastian Lange has spoken publicly on the future of Mika Baur.

Celtic have already agreed personal terms with the midfielder, but their only offer so far of £4 million was rejected.

Reports over the weekend said that Paderborn’s current asking price for Baur was well beyond what Celtic are willing to pay.

Lange, speaking on the German youth international, insisted that the player is “fully motivated” for the season ahead.

A new midfielder for Celtic?! 😃🍀 Does the possibility of Mika Baur joining excite you?

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Sebastian Lange on Mika Baur: ‘All players are fully motivated’

Speaking to leading German outlet Kicker on Baur, Lange said of negotiations: “The financial side might say that something is of interest to SC Paderborn.

“But until that happens, there’s no point in discussing it.”

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“All the players who are here are fully motivated to play in the Bundesliga. The lads certainly have goals and dreams.

“But if someone has a contract and we’re facing a highlight season, then we’ll decide what happens.”

It’s a strong statement from Lange, given that Baur’s desire to move to Glasgow is now well-established.

However, Paderborn are understandably keen to keep their best players, having just secured a first season in the Bundesliga in six years.

Baur has a year remaining on his contract at the German club, but reports have said that they are willing to let it run down if the asking price is not met.

Something has to give in the negotiations, with Celtic expected to lose several key first team midfielders before the end of the transfer window.

Arne Engels looks almost certain to leave in the near future, with a plethora of clubs in England and the rest of Europe chasing the Belgian.

Reo Hatate is being linked with West Ham; he has publicly stated his desire for a change of surroundings after struggling to win O’Neill’s trust.

A stellar debut season by Benjamin Nygren is also generating interest, and a rapid exit hasn’t been ruled out for the Hoops’ top scorer from last season.