Celtic appear poised to edge closer to SC Paderborn’s valuation of midfielder Mika Baur. The 22-year-old is said to have approved a move to Glasgow a week ago, leaving an agreement between the clubs as the primary obstacle. 

Reports indicate Celtic are preparing an improved offer as they seek to finalize the signing quickly.

Sources suggest the two sides have entered [key hours], with the Hoops prepared to raise their bid and complete the deal without delay.

Baur’s willingness is not in doubt; he has already signalled his desire to join Celtic, and personal terms have reportedly been settled, though Paderborn sporting director Sebastian Lange has previously challenged claims that everything was fully agreed.

Paderborn rejected an earlier approach understood to be worth around £4 million. Having just secured promotion to the Bundesliga, the German club insists it faces no pressure to sell. 

Although Baur is entering the final year of his contract, that alone does not compel Paderborn to accept Celtic’s terms. 

The Scottish side must either improve its proposal substantially or risk seeing the player remain in Germany.

Celtic’s opening bid fell short. Club officials now seem ready to acknowledge this and return with a stronger package. 

Baur arrives off an outstanding season with Paderborn that earned him a place in the Germany under-21 squad. Celtic would be acquiring a young midfielder already proven at first-team level.

With the player’s consent secured, the onus rests on Celtic to meet a figure Paderborn will accept. The midfielder wants the move to Glasgow, and the Scottish champions are reportedly prepared to increase their offer. 

Further delay appears unnecessary; the clubs now need only settle on a mutually acceptable transfer fee to bring the deal over the line.