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PSG’s transfer window has been relatively quiet, with only Renato Marin joining so far, yet behind the scenes the club has been working on landing a defender who can become a long-term pillar in their back line.
Illya Zabarnyi, the 22-year-old Ukrainian center-back from Bournemouth, has been a top target for weeks with the the French champions viewing him as a vital addition to secure the defense for years to come.
Lucas Beraldo’s frustration over his lack of playing time and openness to leaving has pushed PSG to prioritize a reliable central defender who can compete with Marquinhos and Willian Pacho.
Zabarnyi’s reputation grew after an excellent 2024/25 Premier League season where he helped the Cherries exceed expectations and hold their own against stronger clubs through his aerial presence, calm distribution and positional discipline.
The French side, who are fresh from quadruple winning campaign, including their first ever Champions League title are looking to add youth and quality at the back so they can maintain their domestic dominance and challenge for European trophies with consistency.
The Ukranian International has been identified as one of those players.
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With preparations underway for the squad’s return to training on August 6, the pursuit of Zabarnyi is reaching a decisive phase.
PSG are preparing new offer
Sky Italia journalist Luca Bendoni reported on July 29 that PSG will submit an improved offer to Bournemouth to move closer to an agreement for Zabarnyi.
Their previous €60m [$69m] bid fell short of the Bournemouth asking price, who are holding on for €70m [$80m] asking price.
The player has reportedly agreed to a five-year deal with PSG which will run until 2030.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano also stated that PSG are accelerating negotiations with Bournemouth, focusing on the structure of bonuses that could seal the transfer soon.
He added that Tottenham Hotspur were never in concrete talks, and the player only wants Paris.
🚨🔴🔵 Paris Saint-Germain are prepared to accelerate for Ilya Zabarnyi as Tottenham were never concrete or in serious talks despite reports.
Zabarnyi wants PSG and add-ons structure is being discussed with Bournemouth.
Almost there. ⏳ pic.twitter.com/boREv6Gl9W
According to some reports, the Club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi is now personally involved to push the deal over the line, while PSG also finalize the €40m [$46m] signing of Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier.
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