Liverpool Hold Talks to Sign PSG Defender Illia Zabarnyi Alongside Bradley Barcola Pursuit
Liverpool are reportedly exploring a move for Paris Saint-Germain defender Illia Zabarnyi as the club continues its busy summer transfer window. While much of the attention has focused on their pursuit of winger Bradley Barcola, fresh reports suggest the Reds are also looking to strengthen their defence ahead of the new season.
The Merseyside club is expected to remain active in the transfer market after an underwhelming 2025/26 campaign. Although Liverpool secured Champions League qualification, the season fell below expectations, prompting the club to identify several key positions that require reinforcement.
Liverpool Continue Bradley Barcola Pursuit
Replacing Mohamed Salah remains one of Liverpool’s biggest priorities following the forward’s departure earlier this year.
PSG winger Bradley Barcola has emerged as one of the club’s leading transfer targets. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has previously reported that Liverpool are working on a deal, with the French international believed to be high on the club’s shortlist.
However, Barcola may not be the only PSG player Liverpool are considering this summer.
Liverpool Open Talks Over Illia Zabarnyi
According to journalist Dave Ockop, Liverpool have held discussions with representatives of Illia Zabarnyi regarding a possible move to Anfield.
The report claims Liverpool have been informed that an opportunity could arise to sign the Ukrainian defender after he reportedly fell out of favour under PSG manager Luis Enrique during the latter stages of last season.
Zabarnyi’s representatives are understood to have presented him as a potential option for Liverpool, with talks taking place over recent days as interest in the defender grows.
PSG’s Valuation Could Be a Major Obstacle
Any move for Zabarnyi is unlikely to come cheaply.
PSG signed the centre-back from Bournemouth for a reported fee of around £57 million, and the French champions are expected to demand at least that amount if they decide to sell him this summer.
Such a valuation would make Zabarnyi another significant investment for Liverpool, especially if they complete a deal for Barcola as well.
Why Liverpool Need a New Centre-Back
Strengthening the heart of defence has become increasingly important for Liverpool this summer.
The Reds have already lost Ibrahima Konaté following the expiration of his contract, reducing Arne Slot’s defensive options ahead of the new campaign.
Although youngster Jérémy Jacquet has joined the club, the defender is still recovering from a long-term injury, leaving uncertainty over whether he can immediately adapt to the demands of Premier League football.
Liverpool’s defensive depth has also been affected by another injury setback involving Joe Gomez.
While Gomez is not expected to miss an extended period, reports indicate he is set to miss Liverpool’s opening Premier League fixture. The England international has struggled with recurring injuries throughout his career, making defensive reinforcements an important priority.
Could Zabarnyi Be Liverpool’s Next Signing?
Zabarnyi is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most promising young defenders. His composure in possession, aerial ability, and defensive awareness have made him an attractive option for several top clubs.
If Liverpool decide to formalise their interest, negotiations with PSG could become one of the major transfer stories of the summer.
For now, the Reds remain focused on strengthening both their attack and defence, with Bradley Barcola and Illia Zabarnyi emerging as two names to watch closely in the coming weeks.