Mika Baur negotiations stall as Celtic valuation deemed ‘not an option’

Add as preferred source on Google

Celtic’s negotiations to sign Mika Baur have reportedly stalled temporarily.

Paderborn are reluctant to sell the midfielder, and a deal at the Hoops’ present valuation is deemed “not an option”.

Celtic agreed personal terms with Baur earlier this week, making a move seem imminent for the 22-year-old.

But the latest delay will come as a frustration for fans who continue to await Martin O’Neill’s second summer signing.

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

Comment

Like or Comment

Have your say Sign-in now for free

Paderborn ‘open’ to losing Mika Baur on a free transfer in 2027

According to Get German Football News, negotiations have temporarily stalled due to a gap in valuations, with Paderborn unwilling to lower their €5 million asking price.

Denis Bayer of Sky Germany, the German side still have the midfielder in their plans and are willing to run down his contract if their valuation isn’t met.

READ MORE: Celtic’s J-League success shouldn’t end with the exits of Maeda and Hatate

Nevertheless, Celtic remain “optimistic” given the small gap in valuations and are still pushing for the German U21 international.

A youth player for Freiburg in his teenage years, Baur never made a Bundesliga appearance before dropping down to the second tier with Paderborn.

He enjoyed a breakthrough 2025-26 campaign, as his side secured promotion to the top-flight by beating Wolfsburg in the promotion/relegation play-off.

However, he is unlikely to sign a new contract, making Celtic a possible avenue for an exit this summer.

O’Neill is likely to need a number of midfielders this summer with several in his current squad expected to depart.

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.