Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea are both vying for the signature of Bournemouth’s standout defender, Illya Zabarnyi. Valued at £50 million, the 21-year-old Ukrainian international has emerged as one of the most promising young centre-backs in the Premier League. This potential transfer underscores the intensifying rivalry between the London clubs, both seeking defensive reinforcements in the January window.
Zabarnyi has been a revelation since joining Bournemouth in 2023, displaying composure, aerial dominance, and intelligent game-reading skills. For Chelsea, he could be the missing piece in their pursuit of building a “super team,” offering much-needed stability at the back to complement their high-profile attacking talents.
On the other hand, Tottenham’s interest in Zabarnyi is driven by a need to shore up a defence that has shown vulnerabilities this season. Under Ange Postecoglou’s progressive style of play, Spurs have struggled with defensive leaks, often relying on their attacking prowess to outscore opponents. Adding Zabarnyi could transform their backline and reduce the defensive frailties that make Both Teams to Score (BTTS) a near-certainty in Tottenham’s matches—a scenario that frustrates but entertains Spurs fans. BTTS bets are amongst the most profitable football betting options. To find both teams to score predictions today, you can use AI-powered betting tips tools.
Why Zabarnyi is in Demand
Zabarnyi has showcased excellent defensive capabilities, including his composure under pressure, strength in duels, and strong ball-playing skills. These attributes have made him a standout player in Bournemouth’s backline. Despite his team’s mid-table struggles, the 21-year-old has consistently delivered high-level performances, catching the attention of elite clubs. His ability to read the game and his physical presence in aerial challenges are qualities that would benefit any top-tier squad.
Tottenham’s Perspective
Under manager Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham is rebuilding its squad with a focus on younger, versatile players. Zabarnyi’s profile aligns perfectly with this vision. Spurs are eager to solidify their defence, and Zabarnyi could form a formidable partnership with Cristian Romero, who himself is courting advances from Real Madrid. Tottenham sees this as an opportunity to invest in long-term success and reshuffle their roster after losing Harry Kane. Reports suggest that Spurs are prepared to negotiate aggressively to outmanoeuvre Chelsea and secure Zabarnyi’s services.
Postecoglou’s attacking philosophy emphasizes a solid defensive base, and Zabarnyi could play a critical role in transitioning from defence to attack. Additionally, Tottenham’s recent performances in the Premier League have put them in a strong position, which could make their pitch to Zabarnyi more appealing compared to a Chelsea side currently in transition.
Chelsea’s Approach
Chelsea’s interest in Zabarnyi reflects their ongoing strategy of acquiring young, high-potential players. Manager Enzo Maresca views him as an ideal fit for a defence that has struggled with injuries and inconsistency. The Blues are looking to add depth and quality to their squad to remain competitive in a fiercely contested league. Zabarnyi’s adaptability to different tactical setups makes him an attractive prospect for Chelsea’s evolving system.
Chelsea’s financial muscle could give them an edge over Tottenham, as they are known for making significant investments in transfer windows. However, Spurs are reportedly determined to push through the deal and are banking on their recent resurgence to sway the player’s decision.
The Road Ahead
The race for Zabarnyi is expected to intensify as the January transfer window approaches. Both Tottenham and Chelsea see him as a transformative signing, but the outcome will likely depend on who can act faster and present the most compelling offer. For Bournemouth, the deal represents both a potential loss and an opportunity to cash in on one of their prized assets. As things stand, Zabarnyi’s future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear—he is poised to make a major move this winter.
