Baur set for Celtic medical
Celtic agree £6.8m deal for midfield target. Here’s what it means.
It’s being reported that Celtic have finally agreed a deal with German side Paderborn to sign 22 year old midfielder Mika Baur.
Baur has been seen as a key target this summer despite both clubs being far apart on valuation for some time. Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph is now reporting that Celtic have agreed an initial deal of around £4.5 million with a further £2.3 million in possible add ons.
The German u-21 player missed training this morning and is believed to be close to completing a medical ahead of a move to the Scottish champions.
Celtic fans will be delighted to hear the news with the midfield being an area of real concern heading towards the close of the summer transfer window.
Celtic close to securing midfielder
Provided there are no issues with the medical it appears that Baur will join Egyptian winger Hassan at the club before the Champions league playoff next week. The club are expected to announce a deal for the world cup winger any time now.
At 22,Baur fits a familiar Celtic recruitment profile. A young talented player who has already accumulated senior experience with the potential to develop further.
A reported £6.8 million fee is still a significant outlay for Celtic and the fans will hope Baur can hit the ground running with several players rumoured to be leaving the club.
What does this mean for Celtic’s midfield?
West Ham are reported to be returning with a new bid of £25 million plus for Arnie Engels. You would think that would be enough to bring Celtic to the table for a deal this window.
Ironically, Baur looks more like a replacement for want away midfielder Reo Hatate, with both players having similar profiles and outputs last season. Whether Baur does come in to replace Engles or Hatate doesn’t change the fact that Celtic still require additional reinforcements in the middle of the park.
In addition to the midfielders coming in Celtic will need another goalkeeper, left back and central midfielder before the window closes. With the likes of Engles, Johnston and Hatate rumoured with moves away from the club, Celtic will likely be working right up to the deadline to make sure the squad is strong enough to complete on all fronts this season.
What do you think Celtic fans? Are you happy with the deal for Baur? Do you think the club needs additional signings for midfield?
All views expressed on Celtic DNA are personal opinions and are for commentary and discussion purposes only
