Aston Villa are closing in on the signing of Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, with Emi Martinez’s future in increasing doubt. Japan international Suzuki has been one of Villa’s top targets should Martinez leave this summer, and the deal, reportedly for around £30m, is currently progressing.
The 23-year-old has made 59 appearances for Parma since joining from J-League side Urawa Red Diamonds in 2024. Born in America, Suzuki qualifies for Japan through his mother and has earned 28 caps since his 2022 debut. He played in all four of Japan’s matches at the World Cup this summer.
His impending arrival means Martinez could now move to Juventus, with the Italian club having held an interest in the 33-year-old throughout this summer. Director of football operations Damian Vidagany had previously confirmed Martinez would stay at Villa Park, but the goalkeeper is now more likely to depart before the transfer deadline.
The Argentina international, a 2022 World Cup winner and runner-up to Spain this year, joined Villa from Arsenal for £17m in 2020. He has made 256 appearances and helped the club end their 30-year trophy drought by winning the Europa League in May.
Martinez missed Wednesday’s Super Cup defeat to Paris St-Germain, as Unai Emery granted him, along with Ezri Konsa and Ollie Watkins, a month off following the World Cup. He was due to return to full training this week in preparation for Villa’s Premier League opener at Brighton on Sunday at 14:00 BST.
