Paris Saint-Germain have finalized the signings of both Ilya Zabarnyi from Bournemouth and Lucas Chevalier from Lille, with all club-to-club documentation now signed and sealed for both high-profile transfers.
The French champions have successfully secured their two primary targets for the summer window, executing a strategy perfectly aligned between president Nasser Al Khelaifi, sporting director Luis Campos, and head coach Luis Enrique.
Zabarnyi Joins for €67 Million Package
Ukrainian defender Ilya Zabarnyi has completed his move to Parc des Princes in a deal worth €67 million including add-ons. The 22-year-old center-back has penned a five-year contract that will keep him at PSG until 2030.
Zabarnyi’s arrival addresses PSG’s defensive needs following their pursuit of a commanding presence at the heart of their backline. The former Dynamo Kyiv academy graduate impressed during his time in the Premier League with Bournemouth, where his performances caught the attention of Europe’s elite clubs.
The Ukraine international brings both physical prowess and technical ability to PSG’s defense. His pace and aerial dominance made him one of the most sought-after defenders in European football this summer, with several top clubs monitoring his situation at Bournemouth.
Speaking about his move, sources close to the player indicate Zabarnyi was attracted by PSG’s project under Luis Enrique and the opportunity to compete at the highest level in both Ligue 1 and the Champions League. His integration into the squad is expected to be seamless given his adaptability and professional approach.
Chevalier Secures €55 Million Move
French goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier has joined PSG from Lille in a transfer worth €55 million including bonuses. The 23-year-old has agreed to a five-year deal after successfully completing his medical examinations in Paris.
Chevalier’s signing is a long-term solution for PSG’s goalkeeping position. The France international emerged as one of Ligue 1’s most consistent performers last season, helping Lille maintain their status as one of the league’s top defensive units.
His distribution skills and shot-stopping ability align perfectly with Luis Enrique’s tactical approach, which demands technical proficiency from every position. Chevalier’s comfort with the ball at his feet made him the ideal candidate for PSG’s style of play.
The goalkeeper had been on PSG’s radar for several months, with personal terms agreed last month. The delay in finalizing the transfer related to negotiations between the clubs over the fee structure, but both parties eventually found common ground on the €40 million base fee plus achievable add-ons.
Strategic Vision Realized
The completion of both transfers shows the unified approach between PSG’s key decision-makers. Nasser Al Khelaifi’s financial backing, combined with Luis Campos’ recruitment expertise and Luis Enrique’s tactical requirements, has delivered exactly what the club targeted.
This coordination between the boardroom and coaching staff represents a more streamlined approach to PSG’s transfer strategy. Rather than pursuing marquee names without clear tactical fit, the club has prioritized players who directly address specific positional needs.
Luis Enrique’s influence on both signings cannot be overstated. The Spanish coach personally approved both targets, having identified their qualities as essential for his system. His experience working with technical players during his Barcelona tenure informed his assessment of both Zabarnyi and Chevalier.
Financial Investment and Future Planning
The combined outlay of approximately €122 million for both players is PSG’s commitment to building a sustainable squad. Rather than focusing solely on attacking talent, the club has invested heavily in defensive stability.
Both players arrive at ages where they can contribute immediately while offering long-term value. Their five-year contracts provide stability and protect PSG’s investment, while their proven abilities in competitive leagues reduce the risk typically associated with major transfers.
The signings also show PSG’s continued ability to compete with Europe’s biggest clubs in the transfer market. Despite Financial Fair Play considerations, the club has structured both deals in ways that allow them to secure their primary targets without compromising their financial position.
Integration and Expectations
Both players are expected to be available for PSG’s upcoming fixtures, having completed all necessary formalities. Their integration into Luis Enrique’s squad will be crucial as the new season approaches.
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Zabarnyi’s versatility allows him to partner with different defensive colleagues, while Chevalier’s immediate availability provides competition and depth in the goalkeeping position. Their arrivals complete PSG’s defensive restructuring for the campaign ahead.
The successful completion of both transfers within the same window underlines PSG’s efficiency in the current market, securing two of Europe’s most promising defensive talents to strengthen their squad for domestic and European competitions.
