PSG set to ramp up talks for defensive target Illia Zarbanyi

Paris Saint-Germain are set to accelerate the talks for the signing of Bournemouth defender Illia Zabarnyi (h/t RMC Sport).

PSG have earmarked Zabarnyi as a top target to bolster the defence, but talks with the Cherries have hit a standstill.

Despite a verbal agreement with the Ukrainian international, Les Parisiens’ €60 million offer was rejected by the Premier League club.

Bournemouth are standing firm on their €70m valuation, and PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi will enter the negotiations to sort out the deal.

PSG are also looking to negate the potential threat from Tottenham Hotspur, who have enquired about Zabarnyi’s availability.

Les Parisiens are confident about finding common ground with Bournemouth with the help of funds from Hugo Ekitike’s imminent sale to Liverpool.

They have a sell-on clause in Eintracht Frankfurt striker’s contract, who is on the verge of a €95m move to Anfield.

A centre-back is one of the priorities for PSG in this transfer window due to Lucas Beraldo’s potential exit.

The Brazilian defender is unhappy with his lack of opportunities and is open to reviving his career elsewhere.

PSG want to add Zabarnyi to their huge talent pool as they prepare to build on their treble-winning season.

The 24-year-old put himself on the map following an impressive 2024/25 campaign, helping the Cherries punch above their weight in the Premier League.

Zabarnyi would have to compete with Marquinhos and Willian Pacho for a starting spot at PSG.

The duo has established themselves as the first-choice centre-backs under manager Luis Enrique.