According to Graeme Bailey via TBR Football, Chelsea attempted a late swoop for Bournemouth’s Illia Zabarnyi. The Blues once again came knocking, but they have suffered a blow as the Ukrainian international has his heart set on a move to PSG.
While speaking to TBR about Zabarnyi’s future, Bailey said, “He really is only focused on PSG. I am told that he has agreed personal terms in principle, but there is still some way to go in terms between Bournemouth and PSG.
“Bournemouth are not too happy with how this is going, but they know the player wants the move and has made that clear. When a team like PSG comes calling, even when there is no release clause – it is tough. I can confirm even in the last few weeks since it emerged about PSG, that Chelsea and Newcastle again asked the question, but were also told that he only wants PSG.”
While Enzo Maresca did an impressive job in his first season in charge of the club, the Italian manager has identified a few key areas that need reinforcement. He has already signed Liam Delap and is keen on adding more quality to his squad.
Signing a new top-level centre-back is one of his top priorities, and Bournemouth’s Zabarnyi is quite high on their wishlist. The 22-year-old centre-back has only gone from strength to strength since joining the Cherries at the start of 2023.
The Ukrainian international is widely regarded as one of the best young defenders in the Premier League, and Chelsea have been closely following him for some time. Zabarnyi is considered an ideal fit for their project, which revolves around signing the best young stars.
While Illia Zabarnyi’s contract at Bournemouth runs until 2029 and they are reluctant to sell him, the Cherries are well aware of the fact that they won’t be able to keep hold of him for long, amidst interest from some of the biggest clubs in Europe.
Chelsea were keen on signing Illia Zabarnyi this summer, but they are unlikely to get their hands on the 22-year-old. They recently asked about him, but have been informed that he only wants PSG.
The Ligue 1 champions are looking to freshen things up at the back and have been working on a potential transfer for some time. He already has an agreement in principle over personal terms with Les Parisiens. While PSG are yet to agree a deal with the Cherries, they are expected to get it done in the near future.
The 22-year-old Ukrainian international has already informed Bournemouth about his desire. He is waiting for the clubs to reach an agreement. While Chelsea tried a late hijack, it has not worked out for them.
