Bournemouth Back in Race for Diakite as PSG Close in on Zabarnyi

The Cherries had previously stepped back from discussions with Lille, finding the club’s £35 million valuation for the 24-year-old centre-back too steep. However, with PSG reaching a near agreement on a £55 million fee for Ukraine international Zabarnyi, though talks over additional clauses are ongoing, Bournemouth have renewed their interest in Diakite, Sport360NG reports.

Insiders close to the Lille defender reveal that Diakite has verbally agreed to personal terms for a five-year contract, but the two clubs are still working out the transfer fee.

Lille president Olivier Letang had been hesitant to part with Diakite but acknowledged the possibility of selling one central defender, stating, “it’s possible but only one,” when asked recently.

Bournemouth are also looking to reinforce their defense further after losing Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid in a £50 million deal earlier this summer. Additionally, the club may look to bolster their attack by bringing in another striker to challenge Evanilson.

The south coast side have shown interest in Chelsea’s Josh Acheampong and Sevilla’s Loic Bade as potential defensive recruits.

PSG are hopeful to finalize Zabarnyi’s signing within the next 48 hours, aiming to secure the player before the start of the French league season. All parties remain optimistic about concluding the deal despite Tottenham’s reported interest.

In related news, PSG have reportedly agreed a £35 million fee to bring Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier to the club amid ongoing contract tensions with their current number one, Gianluigi Donnarumma.