Paris Saint-Germain are preparing to step up their pursuit of Bournemouth defender Illia Zabarnyi, as the French champions look to strengthen their backline ahead of the new season. The Ukrainian international has emerged as a key transfer target, with the Ligue 1 giants readying an improved offer following an initial bid that fell short of Bournemouth’s valuation.
PSG reportedly view Zabarnyi as a central figure in their summer recruitment plans. The 22-year-old defender, who joined Bournemouth in January 2023, has become an integral part of Andoni Iraola’s setup, making 36 Premier League appearances last season and 39 in total across all competitions.
Bournemouth are reportedly holding out for around €70 million, while earlier discussions had PSG offering €60 million. With the clubs locked in a standoff, PSG are expected to raise their offer in the coming days. Tottenham Hotspur have also joined the race, with reports suggesting a £60 million bid from the London club may be enough to tempt Bournemouth into selling.
Zabarnyi’s rise has coincided with Bournemouth’s impressive 2024/25 campaign, where the club secured a ninth-place finish in the Premier League and reached the FA Cup quarter-finals. However, success has drawn attention to their top performers. Dean Huijsen has already returned to Real Madrid, while Milos Kerkez recently completed a move to Liverpool. Zabarnyi could now become the next high-profile exit.
Amid speculation about his future, Zabarnyi recently posted on social media from Chicago, indicating that he is currently in the U.S. Bournemouth are preparing for the Premier League Summer Series, with an opening match against Everton at MetLife Stadium. The defender is expected to feature in the squad for that fixture.
Should Zabarnyi depart, Bournemouth may be forced to accelerate their search for a replacement. The club has identified Udinese centre-back Thomas Kristensen as a potential target, though competition is stiff. Wolves have rekindled their interest after having a bid turned down in January, while Serie A side Como are also in the mix.
As the transfer window progresses, Zabarnyi’s future remains uncertain. With PSG and Spurs both intensifying efforts, Bournemouth face a crucial decision that could reshape their defensive unit.
