Paris Saint-Germain Close In on Ilya Zabarnyi Transfer

Paris Saint-Germain are moving quickly to sign Ilya Zabarnyi from Bournemouth. As per reports, talks are advancing, and an agreement could be close, with PSG preparing to make a new offer for the player, whose transfer fee is expected to be around €60 million.

TRANSFER TALKS SPEED UP

PSG have made Ilya Zabarnyi a priority for their defense this summer. The 22-year-old Ukrainian centre-back plays for Bournemouth, who initially wanted €34 million for his transfer. Reports indicate that discussions are ongoing regarding the structure of add-ons for the deal, and sources believe Zabarnyi is likely to be the first major outfield signing of the window. Despite reports linking Tottenham with the player, talks with that club were never serious. Official confirmation could come as early as next week, with PSG looking to add depth after releasing several senior defenders earlier this summer.

WHY PSG WANT ZABARNYI

Zabarnyi has impressed in the Premier League, making 37 appearances for Bournemouth in the 2024/25 season, helping stabilize the team’s backline. Known for his composure, athleticism, and passing ability, he has also become a regular starter for Ukraine’s national team. PSG dominated internal and European competitions last season, comfortably winning the Ligue 1 but looking for defensive solidity for this season and more options in the centre of defense. They hope strengthening in defense can help them reclaim the league and Champions League titles and progress further in the Champions League, a competition they won for the first time this past season.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

With preseason training resuming on August 6, PSG hope to finalize Zabarnyi’s transfer soon so he can join the squad quickly. Their first official game of the 2025-26 Ligue 1 season is on August 17 against another contender for European spots, Nantes. If signed in time, Zabarnyi could make his debut in this key opener. Bournemouth, who finished 12th in the Premier League last season, now have to replace their young defensive star before the English season also begins in mid-August with their match against last season’s winners, Liverpool.