According to journalist David Lynch, Richard Hughes will know Illia Zabarnyi from his time at Bournemouth and the manager will like him as well. Lynch stated that Liverpool tend to pursue deals if a club like PSG considers a transfer unsuccessful and is willing to agree to a reduced fee. Lynch commented that Zabarnyi could be under consideration and added that a transfer might materialize if PSG decides there is not a role for the player, which might take a couple of weeks. Lynch suggested that he would not discount the possibility of the transfer and that it is a situation to monitor. The 58-cap Ukraine international joined Paris in the summer of 2025 for €63m (£57m) plus bonuses, after he had become regarded as a top defender at Bournemouth under Iraola. Zabarnyi was not a regular starter under Luis Enrique, who preferred a centre-back partnership of Willian Pacho and Marquinhos. He made 37 appearances in all competitions.

Ukrainian international Illia Zabarnyi has been offered to Liverpool, which could reunite him with his former coach Andoni Iraola. According to Daveockop, Zabarnyi is not fully satisfied with his situation at Paris Saint-Germain. The same source claims PSG are open to selling the defender for £57m, and it is understood that initial dialogue has taken place.