Celtic Determined to Keep Mika Baur Amid January Transfer Speculations
Celtic has made it clear that they will reject any incoming offers for midfielder Mika Baur during the January transfer window. In a report from Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, it’s highlighted that manager Martin O’Neill aims to bolster the squad rather than allow key players to depart. The 22-year-old German, signed for £4.5 million, has established himself as a regular starter in midfield. O’Neill faces pressure from fans to demonstrate ambition, particularly after a less-than-ideal summer transfer period.
The effectiveness of Baur and teammate Camilo Duran justifies Celtic’s spending. Baur has contributed four goals from midfield, showing a stronger attacking presence compared to his predecessor, Arne Engels, who recorded 49 key passes in his final season at Paderborn. Meanwhile, Duran has netted 13 goals, taking the center-forward position from Kasper Hogh, who has not scored since an initial hat-trick against Kilmarnock in August after his record £11 million transfer.
Concerns loom over the goalkeeping situation, as O’Neill continues to seek a reliable option. Following Kasper Schmeichel’s retirement in May, Sam Johnstone’s loan from Wolves has not resolved the issue, leading to a rotation between Johnstone and Viljami Sinisalo.
Baur’s style aligns with O’Neill’s preferred 4-3-3 formation, where his passing skills and late runs fulfill vital roles in attacking play. However, at 5ft 8in, Baur can be physically outmatched against teams emphasizing aerial duels, and he provides less defensive support than Engels. Reporter Florian Plettenberg notes that interest from top European clubs, including those in Italy, has emerged, which explains Celtic’s decision to maintain control over Baur’s future.
Celtic’s pressing need lies in shoring up the goalkeeper position. Both Duran’s impressive form and Baur’s contributions stabilize midfield, but the team cannot continue with two keepers lacking confidence—especially after losing four out of five matches before a decisive 7-1 win against Hearts. Johnstone is set to return to Wolves next summer, raising doubts about Sinisalo’s position.
The club is eyeing a realistic target in Blackburn’s Balazs Toth. The 29-year-old Hungarian’s contract extends until June 2027, but reports suggest Blackburn might consider a transfer in January to secure a fee. While Toth’s distribution stats are modest, he has won Blackburn’s Players’ Player of the Year award, suggesting potential for Celtic’s build-up play.
Celtic’s left-back position also requires attention, with Kieran Tierney’s frequent injuries raising concerns and Liam Scales currently filling in. Liverpool’s Luke Chambers, who will be out of contract at season’s end, appears to be a sensible short-term acquisition. With February approaching, Celtic must address their striker situation, especially considering their significant investment in Hogh.
