Aston Villa Targets Parma Goalkeeper as Martinez’s Future Remains Uncertain
Aston Villa is making strides toward acquiring Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, amid growing uncertainty surrounding the future of Emi Martinez. The Japanese international has emerged as a key target for Villa should Martinez make a move this summer. Reports suggest that the transfer is advancing, with a fee of approximately £30 million being discussed.
Suzuki, who was born in the United States, qualifies for Japan through his mother and showcased his talents by participating in all four matches for Japan during the recent World Cup. The 23-year-old has made 59 appearances for Parma since joining the club from J-League side Urawa Red Diamonds in 2024.
The possible signing of Suzuki could open the door for Martinez to transfer to Juventus, who have shown interest in the 33-year-old this summer. Villa’s director of football operations, Damian Vidagany, had earlier indicated that Martinez would remain at Villa Park; however, it appears more likely now that he will depart before the transfer window closes.
Martinez, a World Cup winner in 2022 and a runner-up this year, joined Villa from Arsenal for £17 million in 2020. Since his arrival, he has made 256 appearances and played a pivotal role in helping the club win their first trophy in 30 years by securing the Europa League title in May.
Martinez did not participate in Wednesday’s Super Cup loss to Paris Saint-Germain, as Unai Emery afforded him, along with Ezri Konsa and Ollie Watkins, a month off after the World Cup. He was scheduled to resume full training this week in preparation for Villa’s Premier League opener against Brighton on Sunday at 14:00 BST.
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 progressing.
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Suzuki was born in America but qualifies for Japan through his mother and played all four of their matches at the World Cup this summer.
The 23-year-old has made 59 appearances for Parma since joining from J-League side Urawa Red Diamonds in 2024.
His impending arrival means Martinez could now move to Juventus with the Old Lady having held an interest in the 33-year-old this summer.
Director of football operations Damian Vidagany had previously confirmed Martinez would stay at Villa Park but he is now more likely to depart before the transfer deadline.
The Argentina international, who was a World Cup winner in 2022 and runner-up to Spain this year, joined Villa from Arsenal for £17m in 2020.
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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 with Unai Emery giving him, along with Ezri Konsa and Ollie Watkins, a month off after 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 (14:00 BST).
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