Illia Zabarnyi Joins Paris Saint-Germain!

22-year-old Ukrainian centre-back Illia Zabarnyi has joined the European and Ligue 1 McDonald's champions from Premier League side Bournemouth. The deal is reported to be worth approximately €66 million - making Zabarnyi one of the most expensive defenders in Ligue 1 McDonald's history. The defender signs a five-year deal with Les Parisiens.

Signed from Dynamo Kyiv for €25 million in 2023, Zabarnyi has made 86 appearances for the English side over his two seasons at the club. The Kyiv-born defender and Ukraine international made his debut in the UEFA Champions League with his formative club before his move to the Premier League.

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After a tough start adapting to life in England, Zabarnyi became indispensable during the 2023-24 season — playing 37 of 38 league games and earning the club’s Player of the Season award from supporters. His partnership with fellow centre-back Dean Huijsen was among the best defensive duos in the Premier League. That progress continued last season, when the Cherries sealed a historic 9th finish in the league, with Zabarnyi playing 36 matches last season in England's top tier.

"We’re delighted to continue the strengthening of our squad with the signature of Illia Zabarnyi," Said PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi. "Illia is a talented international player and a great professional. He will make a major contribution to everything that we are building long-term at Paris Saint-Germain."

"I’m very happy to join Paris Saint-Germain, the best club in the world, with the best project," added Zabarnyi on the club's official websiute. I am here to give everything I have on the pitch and I’m looking forward to making my debut and meeting the fans."

PSG have been active recently in the window, after their busy summer at the FIFA Club World Cup. Les Parisiens sealed a move for Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier this week, with the Frenchman potentially making his debut along with Zabarnyi in the UEFA Supercup against Tottenham Hotspur this Wednesday. This is before the champions begin their title defence against FC Nantes during the return of Ligue 1 McDonald's next weekend.