PSG In Advanced Talks With Bournemouth For Ilya Zabarnyi Transfer

Paris Saint-Germain are making a serious move for Bournemouth’s Ukrainian defender Ilya Zabarnyi. Talks between the French champions and the Premier League team have begun.

WHAT HAPPENED?

PSG‘s sporting director Luis Campos has had an eye on Zabarnyi for years. Now, he wants to bring the 22-year-old center-back to the Parc des Princes. PSG have made an official offer for Zabarnyi, who has done well in England. The club want him to strengthen their defense for next season and the Club World Cup.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Zabarnyi has been great for Bournemouth this season, helping them reach 10th place in the Premier League. They are only four points away from Champions League spots. Top European clubs are interested in him, but PSG seem to lead the chase. They’re preparing for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the U.S. from June 14 to July 13.

The transfer fee might be around €50 million. Zabarnyi has a long contract with Bournemouth until 2029. PSG see him as a potential replacement for Marquinhos, who may leave this summer.

POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS

One issue is Zabarnyi’s reluctance to join a team with Russian international goalkeeper Matvey Safonov. The conflict between Ukraine and Russia might affect his choice. Zabarnyi has not spoken about this publicly.

WHAT NEXT FOR PSG?

If Bournemouth won’t sell Zabarnyi, PSG have backup plans. They are looking at other center-backs. Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez is one option. He fits PSG’s goal of signing young and talented players. They want to strengthen their defense quickly before the Club World Cup, where they’ll face Atlético Madrid, Botafogo, and Seattle Sounders in Group B.