According to a report by Football Transfers, Chelsea are actively searching for a centre-back in the market. The Premier League club have identified Bournemouth youngster Illia Zabarnyi as a potential target for the next summer window.
Illia Zabarnyi is on a rising curve
Illia Zabarnyi arrived at Bournemouth from Dynamo Kyiv in the 2023 winter window. Since then, he has climbed up the ladders and has established himself as a mainstay in the squad. His impressive displays have put him on the radar of some major European clubs.
Zibarnyi featured in 42 games last season and had one goal to his name. In the 2024-25 campaign, he has already appeared in 11 games and has been a formidable figure. He is averaging 1.5 tackles, 0.9 interceptions, and 4 clearances per game (stats via whoscored).
The Ukrainian centre-back has good height and decent strength, making him an ideal defender. He shows a great level of maturity on the field and tries to remain close to the attackers. He is also extremely calm on the ball and can help in the buildup play.
Illia Zabarnyi can add a lot of value
Chelsea are finding a centre-back to target amid the uncertainties over the long-term future of Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile. Moreover, Wesley Fofana’s fitness issues are adding to the urgency of this matter.
While the Blues are linked with Tomas Araujo, his massive €100 million release clause will be a hindrance. On the other hand, the pursuit of Illia Zabarnyi will be much more financially feasible.
Zabarnyi has immense potential and all the traits to succeed in the Premier League. He has already done a good job in his short career so far and is expected to improve with time. He can be a long-term investment for Chelsea. However, it remains to be seen if the player will accept the new challenge or not, and how much would Bournemouth demand to sanction the move.
