Bournemouth Hold Firm on Illia Zabarnyi Valuation Despite PSG Interest

Bournemouth Hold Firm on Illia Zabarnyi Valuation Despite PSG Interest

Bournemouth are standing their ground over the future of Illia Zabarnyi, with the Premier League club refusing to budge on their €70 million asking price for the highly-rated centre-back — despite mounting pressure from Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain.

 

The French giants have been in talks with Bournemouth for several weeks as they look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new season. Zabarnyi, 22, has emerged as a top target for Luis Enrique’s side, who are eager to add youthful quality to their backline. However, Bournemouth’s stance has remained unchanged throughout negotiations.

 

PSG’s opening proposals were said to be around the €55 million mark, with their most recent offer reportedly climbing to €60 million. Yet, Bournemouth are adamant that they will not accept anything less than their €70 million valuation — a fee they believe reflects the Ukrainian’s development and future potential.

 

Zabarnyi joined Bournemouth from Dynamo Kyiv in January 2023 for a fee of around £20 million and quickly adapted to life in the Premier League. His performances in the heart of defence were a key factor in the Cherries’ strong finish to the 2024/25 season, with the Ukrainian international impressing with his composure, aerial ability, and leadership beyond his years.

 

Bournemouth sources have made it clear that while they recognise Zabarnyi’s desire to play at the highest level, they feel no financial pressure to sell. The Cherries’ involvement in the Premier League’s lucrative broadcasting deals, coupled with a stable ownership model, means they are well-placed to hold out for their valuation.

 

Privately, the club is also said to be mindful of the message selling Zabarnyi for less than their asking price would send to the rest of their squad and potential suitors for their other star players. Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola remains keen to build on last season’s progress and views Zabarnyi as a central figure in his plans, though he also understands the pull of a club like PSG for the defender.

 

For their part, PSG are reluctant to meet the €70 million price tag in full, especially given Financial Fair Play considerations and other targets on their summer wishlist. The Ligue 1 champions have not ruled out returning with improved terms, potentially including performance-related bonuses or a player-plus-cash offer.

 

As it stands, however, there is a gap between the clubs’ valuations — and Bournemouth are showing no signs of compromise.

 

Zabarnyi himself has remained professional amid the speculation, returning for pre-season training with Bournemouth and taking part in the club’s preparations for the upcoming campaign. Whether PSG are willing to test Bournemouth’s resolve further remains to be seen, but for now, the south coast club are firmly in control of the situation.

 

The transfer window may still have weeks to run, but Bournemouth’s message to PSG — and the rest of Europe — is loud and clear: Illia Zabarnyi will only leave on their terms.

Read more on;https://www.sportupdates.co.uk