Journalist: Liverpool ‘clearly like’ former Premier League defender | OneFootball

Liverpool Could Still Move for PSG Defender Claims David Lynch

Liverpool’s need for defensive reinforcements has become one of the defining themes of the summer transfer window, and on the latest Media Matters podcast from Anfield Index, Dave Davis pressed David Lynch on one intriguing name that continues to gather attention, PSG defender Ilya Zabarnyi.

With Andoni Iraola making no secret of Liverpool’s lack of defensive depth, speculation has naturally intensified around potential additions. While Lynch stopped well short of suggesting a deal is imminent, his insight offered an interesting glimpse into why Zabarnyi could become a player worth monitoring as the transfer window develops.

Familiar connections strengthen Liverpool interest

When Davis referenced reports linking Liverpool with the Ukraine international, Lynch was careful to temper expectations.

“Yes. So definitely someone to kind of at least keep an eye on. I’d say, you know, Richard Hughes bought him for Bournemouth. Obviously Iraola worked with him and absolutely loved him as well.”

Those existing relationships immediately explain why Zabarnyi has entered the conversation. Hughes knows the defender from his recruitment work at Bournemouth, while Iraola previously coached him and clearly values his qualities.

However, Lynch repeatedly stressed that the situation remains dependent on developments in Paris.

“And there’s a suggestion PSG will be open to a sale. But there’s, I mean, how many ifs are there? Like it’s crazy really.”

That caveat is significant. Rather than presenting Zabarnyi as Liverpool’s next signing, Lynch described a scenario that would require several pieces to fall into place before anything meaningful could happen.

PSG hold the key

Lynch explained that any move would largely depend on PSG’s own transfer plans.

“It’s just one I wouldn’t be surprised if there was a move there for him kind of later in the window if PSG really want to shove him out the door, but we’re not at that point yet.”

That assessment reflects the current state of play. Liverpool may admire the player, but admiration alone does not create a transfer. Availability, timing and valuation all remain major factors.

Lynch also outlined why Zabarnyi continues to appeal from Liverpool’s perspective.

“So just a name that I think is worth throwing out there. He’s someone that is clearly liked by the recruitment staff at Liverpool, clearly liked by the manager, has Premier League experience, good age, might be available, but that’s up to PSG.”

Those qualities make obvious sense for a Liverpool side looking to strengthen without introducing unnecessary risk. Premier League experience, familiarity with Iraola’s methods and the backing of Liverpool’s recruitment team are all positives.

Photo: IMAGO

One to watch rather than one to expect

Later in the discussion, Davis asked whether there were any concrete defensive names Liverpool supporters should genuinely believe in beyond the widely reported pursuit of Bradley Barcola.

Lynch’s answer underlined just how uncertain the market remains.

“Honest, I can’t think of a single link that I think has got genuine 100% legs at the moment.”

Yet even after making that point, Zabarnyi remained the exception that Lynch returned to.

“That’s why I kind of think with Zabarnyi, there’s just a lot of boxes ticked by him.”

He concluded with perhaps the clearest summary of Liverpool’s current position.

“So I’m like, I just think he’s worth keeping an eye on. So let’s kind of watch that one really. That’s an interesting name.”

For now, that is exactly where Liverpool’s interest appears to sit. There is no suggestion that negotiations are underway or that an agreement is close. Instead, Lynch’s insight points towards a player who fits Liverpool’s recruitment profile, enjoys the confidence of both Richard Hughes and Andoni Iraola, and could become a genuine option if circumstances at PSG change.

As the transfer window progresses, supporters searching for certainty may have to remain patient. Zabarnyi is not presented as Liverpool’s next signing, but based on Lynch’s assessment during Media Matters with Dave Davis, he is certainly a defender whose situation deserves close attention.