PSG have a taken a serious interest in Bournemouth centre-back Ilya Zabarnyi (22), according to a report this Friday from [**L’Equipe.**](https://www.lequipe.fr/Football/Actualites/Transferts-le-defenseur-ukrainien-de-bournemouth-ilya-zabarny-plait-au-psg/1527720) The outlet has published its winter transfer window’s special edition. PSG are reportedly in the market for a right-footed centre-back, which would act as Marquinhos’ understudy and, perhaps, his replacement considering the Brazilian skipper will turn 31 next year. Despite a long-term contract with _Les Parisiens_ running until 2028, Saudi clubs are keeping an interest in bringing Marquinhos to the SPL.
With [Milan Skriniar expected to leave](https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2024/psgs-milan-skriniar-agrees-to-join-juventus/), PSG have taken steps to ramp up their pursuit of a right-footed centre-back and Bournemouth’s Zabarnyi seems to tick all the boxes. PSG Sporting advisor looks for an experienced, duel-winning centre-back young enough to embed Luis Enrique’s tactics. Zabarnyi is a mainstay for Andoni Iraola’s Cherries and has not missed a single minute of Premier League action this campaign. Initial talks between the player and the Ligue 1 champions have reportedly taken place.
However, **L’Equipe** adds that bringing the Ukraine international may prove difficult for PSG considering Zabarnyi could be teammate with a Russian national, goalkeeper Matvey Safonov.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval