Paris Saint-Germain Complete Deals for Ilya Zabarnyi and Lucas Chevalier

Paris Saint-Germain have signed Ilya Zabarnyi from Bournemouth and Lucas Chevalier from Lille. They were PSG’s main targets for this transfer window.

WHAT HAPPENED?

PSG completed all the paperwork for both players. It has been a quick and clear summer for the team. Zabarnyi comes from Bournemouth for a fee of up to €67 million, including bonuses, with a five-year contract. The 22-year-old Ukrainian defender impressed in the Premier League and the national team. He made 37 appearances for Bournemouth last season, helping them secure their highest-ever top-flight finish, 12th place in the league as confirmed by reports. Meanwhile, Lucas Chevalier comes to PSG after a strong season with Lille. He made 34 league appearances and kept 12 clean sheets, helping Lille finish fifth in Ligue 1 and qualify for the Europa League. Chevalier has also agreed to a five-year contract with PSG according to sources, and will compete for the starting goalkeeper position, adding depth and youth to the squad.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR PSG?

The signings fit PSG’s transfer plans with president Nasser Al Khelaifi, sporting director Luis Campos, and manager Luis Enrique. PSG is focused on improving their defense after leaving the Champions League last season as winners but looking at a more complete squad. They finished first in Ligue 1 last year, with only 2 losses, nineteen points ahead of second-placed Marseille as recently noted. More defensive quality and depth is important for competing for trophies both domestically and in Europe. Zabarnyi will compete with Marquinhos and Pacho for a starting spot, providing tactical flexibility. Chevalier, meanwhile, offers a long-term option in goal and competition for Gianluigi Donnarumma amid some uncertainty regarding his future.

WHAT NEXT FOR PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN?

PSG will present their new signings in the Trophée des Champions against AS Monaco, who finished second last season. The league opener against Nantes follows closely, with PSG in a strong position as the title favorites, competing against Monaco and Lille, their main rivals. PSG play Monaco days later, with a chance to extend their lead. Zabarnyi and Chevalier are likely to be involved immediately, further strengthening the squad ahead of a busy season competing for silverware in Ligue 1 and the Champions League.