Celtic are determined to keep midfielder Mika Baur despite significant transfer interest from clubs across Europe. The 22-year-old, signed from Paderborn for £6.8 million in the summer, has become a key figure under manager Martin O'Neill and is under contract until 2030 without a release clause.
Clubs in the Premier League, Serie A and the Bundesliga are monitoring Baur's progress, with reports suggesting a fee in excess of £17 million would be required to prise him away from Celtic Park. His immediate future is complicated by an ankle injury sustained in the 1-0 win over Kilmarnock last weekend, a result that kept Celtic four points clear at the top of the Premiership with 31 points from 13 games.
Injury and contract security
Baur was forced to withdraw from the Germany Under-21 squad for matches against Belgium and Croatia due to the knock. Martin O'Neill is awaiting scan results on the player's ankle. The manager said he hopes his star man has avoided a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Celtic are under no financial pressure to sell, with Baur's long-term deal providing strong security for the club. The club's stance is that he is not for sale in the upcoming January transfer window.
Squad building plans
O'Neill is targeting a defensive midfielder in the January window, having failed to replace Arne Engels following his £25 million move to West Ham in the summer. The club could also look to bolster defensive options and add another winger. Baur's potential departure is not part of the current plan, with the board understood to be prioritising squad strengthening for the title defence over a quick profit. The manager has stated publicly that the club's intention is to build the team around its key young talents.
Performance and importance
Baur has scored four goals since his arrival and earned a call-up to the Germany senior squad, underlining his rapid development. His importance is magnified by Celtic's position at the summit of the league, where they have won three of their last five matches. He has started 11 of the club's 13 league matches this season, establishing himself as a first-choice midfielder. His performances in both domestic and European competitions have been a significant factor in the team's strong early-season form.
The team's next challenge is a home fixture against St Mirren on 21 November, a match where Baur's fitness will be closely assessed. Supporters can track the team's progress in the standings as the winter schedule approaches. Celtic's next five matches include key league fixtures and the final group stage match in the Europa Conference League, where qualification is still possible.
Read the full report at Daily Record Football
