Chelsea had scouts present to watch defensive target Illia Zabarnyi, as the Ukranian is high on their list of new centre-backs.
According toTBR, Chelsea are keeping close tabs on Illia Zabarnyi ahead of next summer, as they had scouts watching the defender during Biournemouth’s win over Tottenham. The Ukranian centre-back certainly inmpressed during the game, as the Blues have him as a key defensive target on their growing list for a new centre-back.
Chelsea are not a finished article by any means despite their heavy spending under the new ownership. The Blues have spent extensive amounts of money to strengthen their squad with players under a certain age, as Enzo Maresca was given the keys to lead this young group this season.
Chelsea appears very strong in their midfield and attacking setup, as the focus could now switch towards their defence in the near future. There are a few talented players in their backline, although there are some requirements to fulfil in the central and full-back areas.
Chelsea are looking at a new centre-back with some ideas already thrown into the mix. For instance, they arekeen to re-sign former star Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, while there are links to some high-profile names like Castello Lukeba, Ronald Araujo and Jules Kounde.
They are also keen on Illia Zabarnyi of Bournemouth and had scouts watching the 22-year-old highly-rated defender in midweek as the Cherries beat Tottenham. The Ukranian centre-back, who cost £20 million over a year ago, certainly impressed that night, as Chelsea scouts would have returned with a Glowing report on the defender.
Chelsea will face competition for Zabarnyi
Chelsea will face competition for Zabarnyi, although they have a soilid relationship with Bournemouth to make this a smooth transfer in the future. The Blues and the Cherries have had some dealings in recent times, which could help in the deal for the 22-year-old highly-rated defender.
However, Chelsea faces massive competition, with some of theirPremier League rivals, including Tottenham, in the mix for Zabarnyi. However, given the project undertaken at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea could offer a far more attractive proposition for the player from the sporting side should he decide to join them next from Bournemouth.