Newcastle United did not get what they wanted out of the 2024 summer transfer window, as the Magpies missed out on Marc Guehi.
The England international was Newcastle United’s top target, with Eddie Howe desperate to sign Marc Guehi.
He was seen as a player who could improve the Magpies’ starting XI, but Newcastle were priced out. Paul Mitchell failed to finalise a deal for a proven Premier League player who had also established himself in a Three Lions shirt.
Newcastle were asked to pay an incredible premium, with Crystal Palace wanting £75million for Guehi.
With a price tag like that, it is easy to understand why Paul Mitchell wants to change Newcastle’s transfer strategy. As long as PSR exists, the Magpies cannot afford to only shop domestically.
Newcastle United linked with signing Illia Zabarnyi
That is why talk of interest in Bournemouth’s Illia Zabarnyi comes as a surprise.
It was recently reported that Newcastle are admirers of Zabarnyi, as the Magpies eye up potential future targets.
The Ukraine international would be an outstanding addition to Eddie Howe’s squad. He has been immense in the Premier League for an excellent Bournemouth team, and could undoubtably be Fabian Schar’s long-term replacement at St James’ Park.
The problem with Newcastle United’s interest in Zabarnyi
However, that is where the problem lies.
The time to sign Zabarnyi was before January 31st 2023. That was the date that he left Dynamo Kyiv, with the Cherries paying £24million.
You would now assume he is worth at least double that amount, with the 22-year-old having a contract at the Vitality Stadium until 2029.
While there is not the added complication of him being English, Zabarnyi will still cost a premium. His ability is no secret. He has excelled since his arrival in the Premier League, while this Bournemouth side are incredibly exciting.
Any player who leaves Bournemouth is going to cost a lot of money. They are in an excellent position to command whatever fee they want, as suitors begin to line up for the lengthy list of impressive stars.
Newcastle United will not get value if they move for Zabarnyi. While they will get a Premier League proven player, they will have to pay the price for that luxury.
That is perhaps a luxury that the Magpies cannot afford, as they prepare for a squad makeover in the summer of 2025.
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