“Fabrizio Romano SHOCKS Fans with BOMBSHELL Transfer Clue: Newcastle United’s DREAM Defender Move IMMINENT!”

Ukrainian defender Illia Zabarnyi has been heavily linked with a summer switch to Paris Saint-Germain, but Bournemouth are unwilling to let him go easily.

The Cherries have already suffered significant defensive departures this window, with Dean Huijsen joining Real Madrid and Milos Kerkez moving to Liverpool.

Losing another key figure in their backline is not something the south coast club is keen on.

Newcastle United were also interested in Huijsen before he secured a move to Spain, and Zabarnyi has now emerged as a top defensive target for the Magpies.

Both players impressed last season under Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, particularly during their dominant 4-1 win over Newcastle at St James’ Park, where they kept star striker Alexander Isak quiet throughout the match.

Newcastle’s interest in Zabarnyi dates back to January, and the 22-year-old has continued to feature on their radar.

However, it seems they could be beaten to his signature once more by a European powerhouse.

PSG Make Their Move

According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, PSG are ready to launch a fresh approach for Zabarnyi after previously having an offer turned down. The Ligue 1 champions reportedly had a £55 million bid rejected by Bournemouth last month.

Still, Romano now reports that the French club will return with an improved offer, with the player also keen on the move.

Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Romano revealed: “Ilya Zabarnyi wants PSG and Paris Saint-Germain are set to improve their bid!

The verbal agreement has been reached with Zabarnyi in June and PSG are set to approach Bournemouth again. No active talks with Tottenham so far despite reports.”

Despite speculation about Tottenham Hotspur’s interest, no formal bid has been made by the North London side.

Spurs, managed by new head coach Thomas Frank, have already been busy this summer, signing Mohammed Kudus from West Ham.

They are also eyeing Brentford forward Yoane Wissa, both players also drawing interest from Newcastle.

While reports suggest Spurs are willing to pay up to £61 million for Zabarnyi, the defender is reportedly leaning toward a move to the French capital, which could significantly dent Spurs’ hopes of luring him to the Premier League.

Newcastle Exploring Alternatives

With PSG leading the race, Newcastle are exploring other defensive targets across Europe.

Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini has caught the eye of the Magpies’ fanbase, though the Serie A club’s unwillingness to sell could block a potential deal.

The Tyneside club is also looking at La Liga talents, including Valencia centre-back Carlos Tarrega.

Eddie Howe started Fabian Schar and Sven Botman in their first pre-season fixture against Celtic, but with Jamaal Lascelles and Dan Burn brought on later, it highlighted Newcastle’s need to rejuvenate their ageing defence.

At just 22 years old, Zabarnyi would have been an ideal long-term solution at the back for Newcastle. However, all signs currently point to PSG being in pole position to secure his signature.