Man City Exclusive: Bournemouth to accept 'huge' bid for star centre-back

Bournemouth will accept big-money offers for Ilya Zabarnyi amid interest from Man City, sources have told Football Insider.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the Cherries will see the defender’s exit as a viable deal to do in the summer if a “huge” offer arrives.

Zabarnyi, 22, has become a crucial player in Andoni Iraola’s side and has started all 12 of their league games so far this season, but could be sold to help raise funds.

Sources say Bournemouth will be unable to stand in the way if a club can offer him Champions League football and significant wages.

The 45-cap Ukraine international has emerged as a potential target for City, and it is said he “ticks a lot of boxes” for Pep Guardiola and his transfer team.

His age, talent, and experience in both the Premier League and in international football has established him as one of the most highly-regarded young defenders in England.

City’s defensive record this season has been far from impressive, and after conceding four to both Sporting CP and Tottenham in their last three games, they are looking to add further quality at the back.

Man City to make Ilya Zabarnyi bid as Bournemouth stance revealed

Zabarnyi arrived at the Vitality for a fee of £24million in January 2023 when he joined the club from Dynamo Kyiv and has established himself as a key player for them.

After signing a contract extension in the summer, his deal with the Cherries isn’t set to expire until 2029, helping to drive up his steep price tag.

However, sources say that if a significant offer is made, the club would welcome the opportunity to make a significant profit which could be reinvested into their squad.

Bournemouth are not afraid to cash in on key players when their value peaks, having sold star striker Dominic Solanke for £65million in the summer.

It is now said a similar offer would also see them cash in on Zabarnyi, with interest in his signature growing amongst top Premier League outfits.

Since his move to Bournemouth in 2023, Zabarnyi has made 59 appearances for the club, and his value has rocketed amid the increasing possibility of an exit.

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