Latest developments
- PSG are interested in Illia Zabarnyi.
- Luis Enrique's side have already made an approach.
- Bournemouth aren't too keen on selling him.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (4.5/5): Romano comes up with bold claim
Paris Saint-Germain have started making moves in the transfer market days after lifting the Champions League trophy. It is understood they have held talks to sign Illia Zabarnyi from Bournemouth.
The exclusive story comes from the very reliable Fabrizio Romano, who reveals PSG's transfer advisor Luis Campos has been monitoring the defender for many years.
Value (2.5/5): Tricky pursuit
Bournemouth intend to keep the 22-year-old at Vitality Stadium, having only signed him from Dynamo Kyiv in 2023. Further, the Cherries have already lost his defensive partner Dean Huijsen. As such, PSG will have to go through very tricky negotiations to have any chance of convincing the Premier League giants to sell their talent.
Suitability (4/5): Well-rounded defender
The Ukrainian is a colossal presence in the air and at the same time he is very composed with the ball at his feet and often likes to progress the ball from deep. PSG tend to dominate possession under Luis Enrique, who would certainly like what Zabarnyi brings to the table.
Upgrade? (4/5): Defensive depth
In Marquinhos and Willian Pacho, the Ligue 1 champions have two of the most solid defenders at their disposal. As such, it is fair to assume Zabarnyi isn't being targeted with an aim to replace current options. Instead, he is likely to come in as their potential cover.
Logic (2.5/5): Tempting move
The opportunity to join the Champions League winners may tempt any player but Zabarnyi needs to carefully consider his options as he is certainly good enough to start for a top club rather than act as a cover for other centre-backs. Les Parisiens, meanwhile, have “two more options” on their shortlist for the centre-back position.
Whisper+ verdict: 17.5/25
At this point, it seems the transfer saga is in its infancy stage, and it is going to be very tough for PSG to strike an agreement with both Bournemouth and the player.
