Mika Baur has named two Celtic stars in particular for their warm welcome and general influence at the club.

Baur became the Hoops’ fourth summer signing after arriving from Paderborn in a deal that could rise to £6.8 million after add-ons.

Negotiations between the clubs took a decent amount of time, with the Bundesliga side unwilling to let one of their key players go easily.

Celtic got the deal over the line, and the 22-year-old made his debut from the bench in the 4-0 win at Dundee United. It didn’t take supporters long to draw the Reo Hatate comparisons, with their play-style and general look very similar.

Baur made his first start last week as the Hoops beat LASK 3-0 in the first leg of their Champions League play-off. The German U21 star did himself justice and looked a compatible addition alongside Callum McGregor and Benjamin Nygren in the middle of the park. 

And it’s those two players in particular that Baur has credited for their advice since he joined the Celts. He said (Glasgow Evening Times):

“Callum really helped me. It’s not like I can tell you exactly what he said to me.

“It’s more like some tips during the match, before, after, and during the break – just small details, but they helped me a lot to feel comfortable.”

The captain is always one of the first to welcome a new arrival, and his message would’ve resonated given their similar positions. McGregor knows all too well about the pressure that comes with pulling on the green and white; having him there to guide the new signing is vital.

Baur also highlighted Benjamin Nygren’s importance; the Swede has made a brilliant start to the new campaign, scoring four goals and registering four assists in as many games so far this term.

Baur couldn’t speak more highly of Nygren, who was the club’s top-scorer last season with 21 goals.

“He’s an incredible player. He’s so good on the ball. Also, his work rate is quite high. He also speaks a lot with me.

“He helps me, and I really enjoy playing with him.”

The midfield three are set to start once again at the Hoops aim to qualify for the Champions League proper for the first time since the 24/25 campaign. They are in the driving seat, but complacency isn’t being allowed to seep its way in on Martin O’Neill’s watch.

A spot in Thursday’s league phase draw awaits, as does at least £40 million in the bank.

The deciding leg kicks off at 8pm on Tuesday night and is available to watch on Amazon Prime.