Celtic's £4m bid stalls as Paderborn hold firm on Mika Baur

negotiations between Celtic and SC Paderborn over attacking midfielder Mika Baur have temporarily stalled. The Scottish champions are keen to add the 22‑year‑old to their squad, but the German club’s asking price remains a stumbling block. The gap between the clubs’ valuations is modest.

SC Paderborn, newly promoted to the Bundesliga, are unwilling to lower their €5 million asking price. The club’s stance reflects confidence in Baur’s market value after a successful promotion season.

Celtic are reportedly prepared to offer approximately £4 million, roughly €4.7 million, to secure the midfielder. Their optimism suggests the relatively small price gap could be bridged.

The modest difference between the offers indicates an agreement remains possible, according to the reports. Both sides appear aware that prolonged talks could jeopardise the transfer.

Baur has already agreed personal terms and has expressed a preference for a move to the Bhoys. His desire aligns with Celtic’s ambition to strengthen their attacking options.

During Paderborn’s promotion campaign, the 22‑year‑old contributed four goals and seven assists. Those figures highlight his creative impact from midfield.

A €5 million sale would set a new transfer record for SC Paderborn. The club recently saw Filip Bilbija, Calvin Brackelmann and Dennis Seimen leave without generating fees, underscoring the financial incentive to complete the deal.

Paderborn are reportedly prepared to retain Baur for their top‑flight campaign, risking a free transfer loss next summer if a deal falls through. This scenario adds pressure on both parties to find common ground soon.