Tottenham Hotspur could be preparing for one of the most intriguing late moves of the transfer window, with reports suggesting that Spurs are considering a dramatic swoop for Paris Saint-Germain defender Illia Zabarnyi as Roberto De Zerbi looks to rebuild his defence following Cristian Romero’s departure.
The 23-year-old Ukraine international has emerged as a potential target at a crucial moment for Tottenham. With Romero no longer at the heart of the Spurs defence, the north London club have a major gap to fill, and Zabarnyi could offer the combination of Premier League experience, youth and defensive quality that Spurs are searching for.
According to reports from Terrikon, Tottenham have now placed Zabarnyi on their list of defensive options. While there have not yet been formal club-to-club negotiations, the situation could change rapidly as the transfer deadline approaches. A season-long loan is currently viewed as the most realistic route if Spurs decide to turn their interest into a concrete proposal.
Zabarnyi’s situation at PSG could make the opportunity particularly interesting. The defender made the move to Paris from Bournemouth for around £57 million last summer, but despite featuring regularly in Ligue 1, he has not completely established himself as an undisputed first-choice option. His limited Champions League opportunities have reportedly added to uncertainty surrounding his long-term future.
For Tottenham, that uncertainty could present a golden opportunity.
The biggest factor working in Spurs’ favour is the pathway to regular football. Zabarnyi knows the Premier League well from his time at Bournemouth, and a return to England could be hugely attractive if Tottenham can guarantee him an important role in De Zerbi’s defence.
Liverpool had previously been regarded as one of the strongest potential destinations for Zabarnyi, particularly because of his successful relationship with Andoni Iraola during their time together at Bournemouth. However, Liverpool’s defensive picture has changed dramatically.
The Reds already have several options competing for central defensive positions, meaning another major addition could create a serious battle for playing time. Zabarnyi is believed to be looking for regular first-team football, making Liverpool a less obvious destination than before.
Chelsea have also been linked with the Ukrainian, but their priorities have shifted after strengthening their defensive options elsewhere. That could leave Tottenham with a much clearer opportunity to make their move.
The financial situation, however, remains the biggest obstacle.
PSG invested approximately £57 million in Zabarnyi, meaning they are unlikely to willingly accept a cheap permanent transfer that would significantly undermine their investment. Tottenham may therefore have to consider a creative solution.
That is where a loan deal could become extremely important.
A season-long loan could potentially satisfy all parties. PSG would retain ownership of a highly rated defender while allowing him to gain consistent Premier League experience. Tottenham would secure an experienced centre-back without immediately committing to another enormous transfer fee, while Zabarnyi would have the opportunity to become a key player rather than simply another squad option.
For Spurs supporters, the timing could hardly be more interesting.
Romero’s departure has created a clear vacancy, and Tottenham cannot afford to enter the new campaign with their defensive department short of quality. Zabarnyi would bring physicality, composure and Premier League experience, while his age means he could potentially become a long-term defensive cornerstone if Spurs eventually decide to pursue a permanent deal.
The fact that Tottenham have already assessed his situation suggests this is not simply a random name being thrown into the transfer rumour mill. The next step will be whether Spurs decide to make an official approach.
With the transfer deadline rapidly approaching, this is exactly the kind of deal that could suddenly explode into life.
Tottenham have already shown a willingness to spend aggressively this summer, and another major defensive addition would send a powerful message about their ambitions under De Zerbi. If Zabarnyi becomes their preferred replacement for Romero, Spurs could move quickly to try to beat competing clubs before the window slams shut.
A £57 million permanent deal may be difficult, but a loan agreement could provide Tottenham with the perfect escape route.
And if Spurs can convince PSG that a temporary move is the best solution for Zabarnyi’s development, supporters could soon be watching another major Premier League return.
The clock is ticking, the defensive vacancy is obvious, and Tottenham now have a potentially fascinating opportunity on their hands. Zabarnyi to Spurs may not yet be close but this is certainly one transfer story worth watching until the final whistle of the window.
