Credit: Hannah Mckay-Reuters via Imagn Images

PSG Near Big Money Deal for Bournemouth Defender Ilya Zabarnyi

Ukrainian Defender Set To Strengthen Parisian Backline.

Credit: Hannah Mckay-Reuters via Imagn Images

Paris Saint-Germain appear to be closing in on a major defensive reinforcement. They are edging closer to a high-profile move for Bournemouth defender Ilya Zabarnyi to Ligue 1. According to multiple reports, PSG have reached an advanced stage in negotiations to sign the 22-year-old Ukrainian centre-back.

As per reports from renowned journalists Nicolo Schira and Fabrizio Romano, the deal could cost up to €70 million. Zabarnyi joined Bournemouth from Dynamo Kyiv in January 2023 for €22.7 million. He has now emerged as a top target for PSG this summer.

🚨 Both Lucas Chevalier and Ilya Zabarnyi are hopeful to get their moves to Paris Saint-Germain done in the upcoming days.

Both deals are at final stages and expected to happen. ❤️💙 pic.twitter.com/I5jgOBhmRx
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 3, 2025

Reportedly, Zabarnyi has already agreed personal terms with the French club, saying yes to a five-year deal. The official announcement is expected soon, with documents said to be completed. PSG are hopeful of registering him in time for the start of the season.

A Key Target for PSG Backline

The defender has made a strong impression in the Premier League, featuring in 86 matches for Bournemouth. He played a crucial role in their 9th-place finish last season. Under Andoni Iraola, Zabarnyi formed a reliable partnership with Dean Huijsen.

Also Read: With New Goalkeeping Talent at PSG, What Will Become of Gianluigi Donnarumma?

Huijsen has since moved to Real Madrid for €62.5 million. With both players departing, Bournemouth stand to make over €125 million from their defensive duo this summer. Zabarnyi’s consistent performances and composure on the ball have drawn the attention of PSG’s sporting leaders Luis Campos and Tiago Pinto.

Both have been actively negotiating with Bournemouth. Though the English club initially demanded a €70 million fee, Paris are reportedly confident of concluding the deal in a short amount of time in the coming days. Especially with the defender himself pushing for the move.

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Rise and Future Potential of Ilya Zabarnyi

Born and developed at Dynamo Kyiv’s academy, Zabarnyi has grown into a key figure for the Ukrainian national team. His current contract with Bournemouth runs until 2028, and his Transfermarkt valuation stands at €42 million. However, his market value is rapidly rising amid interest and urgency from top clubs.

French outlet L’Equipe reported that PSG holds a major advantage. That is, Zabarnyi is determined to join them and no other club. He has communicated this desire to Bournemouth management, accelerating the transfer’s momentum. The player’s addition will help them in the coming season to defend their wildly successful season last term.

Bournemouth

Ilya Zabarnyi

PSG

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.