SC Paderborn has officially announced the departure of attacking midfielder Mika Baur to Scottish champions Celtic. The 22-year-old has signed a long-term contract through 2030 after weeks of negotiations between the two clubs reached a successful conclusion.
Celtic’s financial package totals €8 million, comprising an initial €5.25 million with an additional €2.75 million in achievable bonuses. This sum establishes a new club record for Paderborn’s most expensive player sale, surpassing the €4.5 million Wolfsburg paid for Aaron Zehnter last year. Baur’s rapid ascent from prospect to record transfer represents a significant return on investment for the German club, who acquired him from Freiburg in 2024.
The midfielder made 33 league appearances during Paderborn’s successful 2024-25 campaign, contributing four goals and six assists as the side secured promotion to the Bundesliga. Celtic manager Martin O’Neill praised Baur’s technical qualities and versatility, while the player expressed enthusiasm about competing for trophies with the Glasgow club. Baur cited conversations with former Celtic winger Nicolas Kühn as influential in his decision to join, despite reported interest from several German top-flight clubs.
Paderborn’s sporting director Sebastian Lange confirmed the club will invest the transfer proceeds into squad reinforcements before the transfer window closes, strengthening their roster ahead of their Bundesliga return.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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