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 worth 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. Suzuki, who was born in America and qualifies for Japan through his mother, has earned 28 caps since his 2022 debut and played all four of Japan’s matches at this summer’s World Cup.
Suzuki’s impending arrival suggests Martinez could move to Juventus, with the Italian club maintaining interest in the 33-year-old. While director of football operations Damian Vidagany previously confirmed Martinez would stay, he 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 a 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, Ezri Konsa, and Ollie Watkins a month off following the World Cup. He was due to return to full training this week to prepare for Villa’s Premier League opener at Brighton on Sunday at 14:00 BST.
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