Ilya Zabarnyi, the 22-year-old central defender from Bournemouth (contract until 2028) and Ukraine, has been announced as a defensive priority for Paris Saint-Germain for the transfer window. There is even talk of a move towards PSG. Ben Jacobs announced today that talks between the two clubs will resume, even though the player has already signed his contract. The deal is expected to be close to €70 million.
Fresh off their European title, PSG are looking to strengthen their central defence, and Ilia Zabarnyi has emerged as a priority target. The Ukrainian international remains determined to join Paris despite sustained interest from Tottenham. While a personal agreement has been in place for several weeks, the real challenge lies in negotiations between the clubs — Bournemouth are demanding €70 million, while PSG’s offer is slightly lower.
This financial gap, estimated at less than €5 million, is the final hurdle. The flexibility Paris must show in the face of English competition reflects the high-stakes nature of the post-European-victory transfer market. The imminent outcome of these talks — driven by the player’s clear desire and PSG’s push to finalize one of this summer’s biggest defensive signings — underlines the club’s renewed defensive ambition.