Tottenham Hotspur Are Still In The Running To Land This Bournemouth Defender: Good Option For Frank? | OneFootball

In a recent report, RMC Sport claimed that Tottenham Hotspur are still in the running to land Bournemouth defender Illia Zabarnyi this summer. It has been stated that Spurs are prepared to pay as much as €70m for him, but the Ukrainian centre-back has his heart set on a move to Paris Saint-Germain this off-season.

Zabarnyi’s Impressive Form In The Premier League

Zabarnyi had a solid campaign at the English club as he put in a string of impressive performances for them inside his half. He made 39 appearances for the Cherries last season, securing one assist on all fronts.

The Ukrainian talent was a decent performer on the defensive end of the field after he made 52 tackles, 33 blocks and 41 interceptions in the Premier League. He was even accurate when distributing the ball from the back, based on his pass success rate of 82.1% in the English first division (stats via fbref.com).

His current contract at the Vitality Stadium will expire in the summer of 2029. Hence, Tottenham would have to launch a big offer if they want to get a deal over the line for him in this transfer window.

LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 19: Illya Zabarnyi of AFC Bournemouth passes the ball during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace FC and AFC Bournemouth at Selhurst Park on April 19, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)

Is Zabarnyi A Good Option For Tottenham Hotspur Boss Thomas Frank?

Zabarnyi is a good tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to earn possession back for his team inside his half. He usually clears his lines when the opposition are on the offensive and excels at playing his way out from the back.

Standing at 1.89m, the Ukrainian sensation is a strong presence in the air as well. He has already got some valuable experience in the Premier League and won’t take much time to adjust to life at Tottenham.

Zabarnyi would bring more bite and steel to Spurs boss Thomas Frank’s defence. He is good enough to fight for regular first-team football at the North London club next season.

At 22, Zabarnyi has the potential to be a future star in the Premier League as long as he continues to improve with each year. Therefore, Spurs would be wise to go all out to bring him on board this summer. Zabarnyi will also help Tottenham compete across all competitions in the coming years. All in all, he would be a great option for the London side to consider for the long run.