PSG and Bournemouth at odds over Illia Zabarnyi transfer fee as defender starts to lose patience over transfer

A transfer that was supposed to have been completed a few weeks ago still remains in limbo, causing Illia Zabarnyi to contemplate his future.

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WHAT HAPPENED?
While many expected Zabarnyi to arrive in the French capital ahead of pre-season, the Bournemouth centre-back is still waiting for the green light. Discussions with Paris Saint-Germain, which began several weeks ago, have yet to yield any concrete results. And the player, who is keen to join the French side, is starting to lose patience. Luis Enrique, who had had his eye on the Ukrainian player for a long time, has still not been able to add him to his squad, much to the disappointment of his staff.

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THE BIGGER PICTURE
PSG did indeed submit an offer of €60 million (£52m/$69m) plus variables, for a total amount of around €63m (£54m/$73m). Zabarnyi's agents have already agreed terms with the club on a contract running until 2030. But Bournemouth are still holding out for an additional €3m in bonuses before they will accept the deal.
And that is precisely where the deadlock remains. PSG refuse to give in to Bournemouth, according to L'Équipe on Wednesday, and Nasser Al-Khelaifi is standing firm. He considers the current offer to be sufficient, especially after several concessions. The Qatari leader does not want to set a dangerous precedent.
DID YOU KNOW?
The problem is that this waiting game could prove costly for Les Parisiens. Zabarnyi is no longer hiding his frustration at the slow pace of negotiations. And while PSG hesitate, Tottenham and Newcastle are ready to pay whatever it takes, no questions asked. Both clubs are convinced of the potential of the 22-year-old, who came through the ranks at Dynamo Kiev. The reigning European champions know what they need to do if they want to sign the centre-back.

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WHAT NEXT?
If the deal falls through, Luis Enrique may not be pleased with how things turn out. This defensive reinforcement is one of his priorities. And even if the Parisian management's perseverance is understandable, the strategy remains risky. The market does not forgive prolonged hesitation. Zabarnyi is ready. The question is whether Paris will be ready in time.
Additional reporting by Patrick Tchanhoun.

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