Paderborn Boss Makes Mika Baur Transfer Admission

Paderborn head coach Ralf Kettemann believes Mika Baur will remain at the Bundesliga club this season despite continued interest from Celtic.

The Germany Under-21 international remains one of Martin O’Neill’s midfield targets, with the Hoops continuing to push for a deal after seeing an opening bid rejected.

CeltsAreHere understands Celtic remain optimistic an agreement can eventually be reached, with personal terms already in place and Baur keen on the move to Glasgow.

However, negotiations with Paderborn have proved far from straightforward.

The German club are standing firm over their steep valuation despite the midfielder entering the final 12 months of his contract, believing Celtic’s offer falls short of what they consider acceptable.

After missing a midweek friendly amid growing speculation over his future, Baur returned to the starting XI on Saturday.

The 22-year-old played the full 90 minutes and got on the scoresheet as Paderborn defeated Osnabrück 2-0 in another step towards their Bundesliga campaign.

His inclusion suggests the club are continuing preparations with the expectation he could still be part of their plans.

Speaking after the match, Kettemann admitted the club have considered the possibility of losing Baur but remains confident he will stay.

“Of course, we’re considering the worst-case scenario, that Mika and Laurin might leave. But I’m confident that both will stay.

“And if not, we’ll find a solution. We have good players and good ideas. I’m really relaxed about it.” [NW Sport]

The Scottish champions have remained patient throughout negotiations, believing there is still a deal to be done given Baur’s contract situation and the player’s desire to join the club.

With just one year remaining on his current deal, this summer represents Paderborn’s best opportunity to command a significant transfer fee unless they can persuade him to sign an extension.

As a result, there remains a feeling that this saga could continue deep into the transfer window.

Paderborn are publicly projecting confidence, but behind the scenes, though, Celtic remain in the picture, and with Baur still eager to make the move, this is a transfer story that appears far from over.