Transfer News: Tottenham Hotspur were willing to pay £25 million for Ilya Zabarnyi
According to Football 24 (h/t hitc.com), Tottenham Hotspur were willing to pay £25 million for centre-back Ilya Zabarnyi. They made such an approach on the deadline day.
Spurs have been interested in the 20-year-old for some time now. Earlier, in June when the window had just opened, it was reported that the Dynamo Kyiv centre-back was one of the names on Antonio Conte’s shortlist.
However, the teenager was urged to not make such a giant leap so early in his career, and he seems to have heeded that advice. The summer transfer window is now shut and the centre-back is still a Dynamo player.
The Ukrainian international rose to prominence when he became the second youngest player to represent his country at 18 years and 36 days. Since then he has established himself as a regular for both club and country.
Zabarnyi’s current contract expires in 2026 (transfermarkt). Dynamo opted not to accept such a good offer for the defender because they know the player will be worth more come the next transfer window.
A centre-back capable of playing on either side, the 20-year-old would have been a fine addition to the squad. Highly unlikely that he would go straight to the first team, he could have been loaned back to his current side like Destiny Udogie.
It is highly unlikely that the player will stay under the radar for much time. Spurs could have walked away with a steal of a deal, but could now face competition if they return back for the player.
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Conte, meanwhile has a good and competitive squad in his hands. Fans will hope their side can continue their unbeaten run when they take on Fulham this Saturday. Spurs are currently third on the table with 11 points.
