Tottenham Urged to Avoid Overpaying £50 Million for Defensive Star
Tottenham Hotspur has struggled to find consistency during the 2024/25 Premier League season, currently sitting 10th after 11 games. Ange Postecoglou’s second season has been marred by inconsistency and injury setbacks, especially in the center-back department.
With Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven sidelined due to injuries, Tottenham faces a defensive crisis, exposing the team’s lack of depth in this crucial area.
Beyond these two key players, Radu Dragusin stands as the sole senior center-back available, leaving the squad vulnerable. This predicament has prompted the club’s management to prioritize reinforcing the defensive line in the upcoming winter transfer window.
One prominent name on Tottenham’s radar is Bournemouth’s Ilya Zabarnyi. The Ukrainian defender has garnered attention for his commanding performances since joining the Cherries in 2023.
Known for his aerial dominance, physicality, excellent reading of the game, and composure under pressure, Zabarnyi has played a pivotal role in Bournemouth’s strong start to the season.
Despite recently signing a five-year contract extension at the Vitality Stadium, tying him to the club until 2029, interest in Zabarnyi continues to grow. Bournemouth, recognizing his value, has reportedly set a price tag of £50 million for their defensive stalwart.
John Wenham, owner of the Spurs podcast Lilywhite Rose, has expressed skepticism about Zabarnyi’s valuation. While acknowledging the player’s potential, Wenham questions whether his performances warrant such a hefty fee, particularly given that Bournemouth initially acquired him for £18 million.
Wenham argues that Tottenham’s current roster includes several promising young defenders, which could deter the club from pursuing another center-back unless long-term injuries to key players force their hand.
However, with Van de Ven suffering recurrent injuries and Romero reportedly attracting interest from Real Madrid, the urgency to strengthen Tottenham’s backline grows.
Tottenham’s historical reluctance to spend exorbitantly on players could also influence their approach.
However, Daniel Levy’s willingness to break the club’s transfer record with the signing of Dominic Solanke for £65 million last summer suggests a shift in strategy. If Zabarnyi is viewed as a vital addition to address the team’s defensive issues, Levy may again open the purse strings.
Spurs’ interest in the Ukrainian defender isn’t new; the club previously attempted to secure a deal with Dynamo Kyiv in 2022, signaling a long-standing admiration for the player. Under Andoni Iraola’s guidance at Bournemouth, Zabarnyi has shown considerable development, further solidifying his reputation as a rising talent in the Premier League.
The decision to pursue Zabarnyi ultimately hinges on Tottenham’s evaluation of his potential contribution versus his substantial price tag. While some question whether the 21-year-old has proven himself enough to command a £50 million fee, his performances this season suggest a player on an upward trajectory.
If Tottenham decides to make a move, it could signify the club’s intent to invest in long-term defensive stability. Balancing the need for immediate reinforcements with financial prudence will be key as the club navigates the challenges of the January transfer window.
Read also: Tottenham ratings vs Man City: Toothless attack undermines sturdy defence
Read also: Ange Postecoglou explains why Spurs gave Djed Spence a new contract