PSG Sign Illia Zabarnyi From Bournemouth on Long-Term Deal

Paris Saint-Germain have signed Ukrainian defender Illia Zabarnyi from Bournemouth. He joins PSG on a contract until June 2030. The deal is worth around €63-66 million, including add-ons, as the clubs have agreed on a transfer fee reported to be around €60 million, although final costs may rise with performance-related add-ons.

WHAT HAPPENED?

PSG have signed 22-year-old centre-back Illia Zabarnyi on a five-year deal. This comes after weeks of talks with Bournemouth. Reports say the fee is around €63 million, plus add-ons that bring it close to €66 million. The transfer speeded up this month as PSG were moving quickly to finalize the deal, with Zabarnyi traveling to Paris for medicals and paperwork earlier this week according to reports.

WHY THIS SIGNING MATTERS

Zabarnyi was a key player for Bournemouth last season, helping the club stay safe in the league with a strong defense, and he pushed the team to a 9th place finish in the Premier League as a first-choice defender. He is good in the air, positions well, and passes calmly under pressure. For PSG, he adds depth and stability to their defense, joining players like Marquinhos and Lucas Beraldo. PSG want to refresh their back line after winning Ligue 1 last season with only 2 losses this past year.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

PSG won Ligue 1 last season and start as favorites again. They also want to succeed in Europe after achieving a treble that included their first UEFA Champions League trophy in 32 years this past season. Zabarnyi’s style fits their plans as he played a lot in the Premier League, stayed fit, and was strong against top attackers. Bournemouth, who finished mid-table last season, have sold three starting defenders this summer and are planning to sign Bafodé Diakité from Lille as a replacement, which may affect their start to the season and their opening matchday’s visit to current champions Liverpool.

WHAT NEXT?

PSG play in Ligue 1 this weekend, defending their title against pressure from Monaco and Marseille. They will likely play Zabarnyi soon, but his debut depends on training and completing the necessary paperwork. PSG aim for a strong start in the Champions League next month. Bournemouth begin their Premier League season needing quick defensive teamwork to avoid the bottom and compete for mid-table positions.