PSG Close In on Illya Zabarnyi Deal Amid Interest from Tottenham

Paris Saint-Germain look to be edging closer to securing a big-money deal for Bournemouth centre-back Illya Zabarnyi, following lengthy negotiations with the Premier League club. While both sides have stood firm on their terms so far, there’s now real momentum behind the scenes.

The two clubs have reportedly agreed on a base fee of around £52 million, but Bournemouth are still pushing for a total package closer to €70 million (around £59 million) once add-ons are included. That remains the key sticking point, though there’s a growing belief that a compromise could be reached soon. Bournemouth aren't in a rush to sell. They’ve already made some serious cash this summer, having sold Milos Kerkez to Liverpool for £40 million and Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid in a deal reportedly worth well over €50 million. Still, the possibility of Zabarnyi moving on remains very real—especially with PSG stepping up their efforts. 

Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano confirmed that the Ligue 1 giants are preparing a fresh bid and that things are heating up. He posted on X, “Paris Saint-Germain have new bid ready for Ilya Zabarny as talks are set to accelerate with Bournemouth. Nasser Al Khelaifi, also involved as PSG want to get their top centre back target.” It’s understood that Zabarnyi had already reached a verbal agreement with PSG in June, which gives the French club a clear advantage. They’re expected to return to the negotiating table soon to finalize terms. 

Despite earlier rumors, Romano clarified that Tottenham haven’t made an official move yet. That said, Spurs are one of the few clubs reportedly open to meeting Bournemouth’s full asking price. Thomas Frank’s side are keen to add another strong presence in defence, and Zabarnyi’s ball-playing ability and composure under pressure make him an attractive option. 

Newcastle United are also keeping a close watch. With the Magpies preparing for another European campaign, they’re searching for a dependable partner for Sven Botman. Zabarnyi fits the profile, and their interest could become more concrete if talks between PSG and Bournemouth stall. Chelsea, too, have included the 22-year-old Ukrainian on their long-term shortlist, seeing him as a potential anchor in a refreshed backline. Liverpool are monitoring him as well, with the idea that he could eventually step into the shoes of Ibrahima Konaté. However, neither club has submitted a bid at this stage. 

Meanwhile, Bournemouth are already working on replacements. Their £26 million bid for Lille defender Bafodé Diakité was turned down, with the French side demanding £35 million—a fee Bournemouth currently see as excessive. But with Zabarnyi likely on the way out, they may be forced to either return with an improved offer or explore other options. 

Now, all signs point toward PSG leading the race, but with Premier League clubs hovering and Bournemouth standing firm on their valuation, this deal isn’t over the line just yet. The next few days could be decisive.