Paris Saint-Germain closes transfer of Bournemouth's defensive player Zabarnyi
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has announced the signing of Illia Zabarnyi, a 22-year-old Ukrainian centre-back, from Bournemouth on a five-year contract. The transfer fee is reportedly around £54.5-57.1 million (approximately €63-69.5 million or $69.5-76 million).
Zabarnyi's Impact at Bournemouth
Zabarnyi, a key player in Bournemouth’s defence, played a significant role in the team's highest-ever Premier League points tally of 56. He made 36 appearances last season, scoring one goal, and was instrumental in securing 16 clean sheets for the team.
PSG's Defensive Reinforcement
PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi described Zabarnyi as a talented international and a great professional who will contribute to PSG’s long-term project. This signing is part of a broader defensive overhaul at Bournemouth, who have sold several defenders this summer.
Zabarnyi's Statistics
- Position: Centre-back (defender)
- Age: 22 years old
- International caps: 49 appearances for Ukraine, including participation in Euro 2024
- Previous club: Dynamo Kyiv before Bournemouth
Rebuilding at Bournemouth
Andoni Iraola now faces the task of rebuilding Bournemouth's centre-back partnership following Zabarnyi's departure. The club confirmed the defender's departure on Tuesday.
PSG's Dominant Season
PSG recently won the Champions League for the first time and has brought Zabarnyi in to strengthen their defence for upcoming domestic and European campaigns. The team was beaten by Chelsea in the Club World Cup final in the 2024-25 season but will be aiming to build on their dominant performance in the upcoming season.
Wearing the Number Six Shirt
Zabarnyi will wear the number six shirt at Paris Saint-Germain. This signing marks PSG's first-ever acquisition of a Ukrainian player.
Upon joining PSG, Zabarnyi will look to replicate his successful defensive performances from his tenure at Bournemouth, where he played a pivotal role in their highest-ever Premier League points tally. This signing, along with others, represents PSG's strategic defense reinforcement for the upcoming domestic and European leagues, including the prestigious UEFA Champions League they recently won.
