Mika Baur has arrived at Lennoxtown as Celtic close in on finally completing one of the longest-running transfer stories of the summer.
After weeks of negotiations, delays and speculation, the German midfielder now appears to be on the brink of becoming a Celtic player.
Reports on Thursday say Baur has completed his medical and travelled to Lennoxtown as the final details of his move from Paderborn are completed.
That is the development Celtic supporters have been waiting for.
Mika Baur finally reaches Lennoxtown
The Daily Record reported that the 22-year-old was excused from Paderborn training as he prepared to complete a five-year Celtic deal.
Further reports now put the midfielder at Lennoxtown, with Celtic pushing to get the transfer over the line.
It has taken considerably longer than supporters expected after personal terms were reportedly agreed weeks ago. However, Celtic now appear to be at the finish line.
The reported fee has risen during negotiations, with current reports placing the deal at around £6.8million to £7million.
Baur helped Paderborn win promotion to the Bundesliga last season. He produced four goals and six assists across 36 appearances in all competitions.
More importantly, his versatility could give Martin O’Neill another exciting option.
Baur can operate centrally or from wider attacking positions. At just 22, he also fits the profile of a player Celtic can develop further.
Celtic transfer business gathering momentum
There is another reason for supporters to be excited.
Baur’s impending arrival comes as Celtic’s summer recruitment suddenly appears to be gathering real momentum.
Haissem Hassan is also set to join the club, giving O’Neill another attacking option as the squad begins to take shape.
For weeks, the Baur transfer became a source of frustration because the player seemingly wanted Celtic while negotiations dragged on.
Now the waiting appears almost over.
Nothing should be treated as completely finished until Celtic make the official announcement. Nevertheless, a completed medical and an arrival at Lennoxtown would suggest this transfer is now extremely close.
After a long wait, Mika Baur finally looks ready to become a Celt.
That’s a shame you’re doing all this work and no one’s replying and the one person who is replying Eric is terrified of.
It’s about we just get this announced and move on quickly to the next one , we should have had these deals tied up weeks ago
Come on Celtic just get this deal announced and move on quickly to the next one , glad it’s happening but why weren’t these deals done a few weeks ago ?
Good news, hope there are more inbound