Newcastle Threaten PSG for €70M-Rated Bournemouth Ace, Ligue 1 Star in Transfer Battle | OneFootball

PSG are expected to make signing a center-back one of their top priorities this summer, and Bournemouth defender Illya Zabarnyi remains firmly on their radar. But landing the Ukrainian defender is shaping up to be anything but simple.

The Parisians have leaned into a youth-focused strategy in recent windows, adding players like Lucas Beraldo and Willian Pacho, and that approach doesn’t appear to be changing, even with the summer transfer period still weeks away.

L’Équipe’s Loïc Tanzi previously reported that PSG have opened talks with Bournemouth about a possible deal for Zabarnyi. The 22-year-old is said to be interested in the move, especially with the FIFA Club World Cup approaching, but Bournemouth are holding firm on a €70 million valuation.

More recently, EuroSport’s Romain Collet-Gaudin reported that the deal is nearing completion, with Zabarnyi expected to make the switch to Paris after the Club World Cup.

PSG face major challenge from Newcastle United

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Newcastle United are reportedly competing with PSG for two transfer targets, according to The Athletic. One of them is Zabarnyi, who is drawing strong interest from the Magpies, particularly at St. James’ Park. The Bournemouth defender is already on PSG’s radar as they look to strengthen their backline this summer.

The second player is Lucas Chevalier. The Lille goalkeeper recently praised the Premier League, calling it “the most attractive league.” While PSG are monitoring him, he is viewed as a backup option. Their first-choice plan remains Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Recently, Sky Sports reported that PSG have submitted a second offer of £55 million for Zabarnyi with the asking price being £70 million. As a result, it will be interesting to see if the capital club can find a middle ground on a fee or if the Cherries intend to stick to the fee they are demanding.