PSG sign Ukrainian centre-back Illia Zabarnyi for €63 million plus €3 million in bonuses after reaching an agreement with AFC Bournemouth.
Paris Saint-Germain have completed the signing of Ukrainian centre-back Illia Zabarnyi from AFC Bournemouth in a deal worth €63 million fixed plus 3 million in variables.
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The deal, which was struck in the last few hours, strengthens the Parisian defense with one of the most promising young talents in European football, according to Fabrice Hawkins.
Illia Zabarnyi: The perfect signing to bolster PSG’s defence
Zabarnyi, 22, has established himself in the Premier League as a reliable defender with quick tackling and a great ability to initiate play from behind. He joined Bournemouth in 2023 from Dynamo Kyiv, where he was already considered one of the biggest talents in Ukrainian football. His time in England has given him experience of facing elite strikers on a weekly basis – something he now hopes to bring to Luis Enrique’s team.
Before his transfer to England, Zabarnyi excelled at Dynamo Kyiv, the club where he was raised and made his professional debut as a 17-year-old. In Ukraine, he impressed with maturity and defensive solidity, with over 70 official matches in the Ukrainian top league. His move to Bournemouth in 2023 was around €15 million, reflecting the potential and quality he showed early in his career.
His time at Dynamo also gave him experience in European tournaments, with participation in the Champions League and Europa League, which contributed to his development and international exposure. His steady development at the Ukrainian club was crucial for top clubs to take notice of him, which led to his move to the Premier League.
In two seasons with the English club, the centre-back played over 60 official matches and showed remarkable consistency and leadership skills despite his young age. He has also been a key player for the Ukrainian national team, participating in qualifiers and major international tournaments.
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Illia Zabarnyi in win against Everton
For PSG, his arrival represents a medium to long-term investment. The Parisian defense has undergone adjustments in recent transfer windows, and the board believes Zabarnyi can provide stability and development potential.
The Ukrainian player’s goal will be to adapt quickly to Ligue 1 and a team with high ambitions. His style of play, which combines defensive strength and precision in passing, suits PSG’s attacking approach and will be able to compete for a starting spot from the outset.
For Bournemouth, the deal means a significant sale price that could strengthen other positions in the squad. The English club loses one of its defensive pillars, but is left with a significant financial gain.
PSG fans have received the news with optimism, knowing that the signing of Zabarnyi not only addresses immediate needs, but also introduces a young player with development potential. If he lives up to expectations, his name could become a regular part of PSG’s central defence in the years to come.
