Celtic Close to Agreeing Deal to Sign 'Outstanding' Engels Replacement

Celtic are progressing toward finalizing a transfer agreement with Paderborn midfielder Mika Baur as they seek reinforcements in midfield. The Scottish Premiership leaders have identified the German playmaker as a key target to strengthen their squad during the January transfer window. Baur, who operates as a central midfielder, brings technical quality and ball-progression abilities that align with Celtic's possession-based system. The 25-year-old has featured consistently for the Bundesliga 2 side this season, contributing crucial performances as Paderborn pursue promotion back to the top flight.

The move represents Celtic's strategy to bolster their midfield depth following injuries and squad demands in their challenging domestic and European campaigns. Baur's arrival would provide manager Ange Postecoglou with additional creative options in the middle of the park, an area that has required attention throughout the current season. The Paderborn midfielder possesses versatility, capable of functioning in multiple midfield roles while maintaining the intensity required in Scotland's top division. Currently, Celtic sit top of the Scottish Premiership, and adding quality European experience through recruitment remains central to their ambitions in both domestic and continental competition.

Should negotiations conclude successfully, Baur would join Celtic's ranks during a critical phase of their season, with numerous fixtures scheduled across multiple competitions through February and March. The acquisition would strengthen Celtic's squad rotation options as they compete across the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Cup, and European commitments. Paderborn's potential loss of their midfielder reflects the growing interest in German football talent from established European clubs seeking development-stage players with significant upside. The completion of this transfer would represent another strategic addition to Postecoglou's evolving squad architecture.