Why Reims midfielder Patrick Zabi is attracting Europe’s elite | OneFootball

According to L'Équipe, 19-year-old Ivorian midfielder Patrick Zabi has ignited interest from leading European clubs, leaving Reims eyeing a potential record sale after Hugo Ekitike’s transfer to PSG for around €35m including bonuses.

Paris FC were the only French side to bid last summer, tabling €25m, of which €10m were bonuses, and viewing him as central to their project. Others followed, with three suitors in England and three in Italy, and all signs suggest a deal would not be struck below €30m.

Zabi arrived in France last winter, only 15 months after playing in Ivorian Ligue 2 with the Ivoire FC academy. Reims had monitored him and, in the words of chief executive Mathieu Lacour, it was clear he stood out and had something extra.

Nicknamed “Zabi la magie” in Yopougon, he impressed during development matches late in 2024, then signed for Reims’ Pro 2 in National 3. With a warrior mentality, rapid adaptation, a 1.91 m frame and sharp positional sense, he dazzled in first-team pre-season.

Combining body feints with forceful tackles, he may only lack a little muscle mass. Lacour says he can cover 13 kilometres per match and has been clocked above 36 km/h, with standout data and eye-catching defensive recoveries.

His Reims story, featuring 16 Ligue 2 outings, 4 in the Coupe de France and 2 in Ligue 1, will not go beyond the summer. Interested clubs understand the deal, whatever his destination, Zabi will finish this season with Reims.

Source: L'Équipe