Aston Villa are nearing an agreement to recruit Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki as uncertainty grows over Emi Martinez’s future.
The Japan international has emerged as one of Villa’s preferred options if Martinez leaves this summer, and negotiations over a deal believed to be worth about £30m are moving forward.
Although Suzuki was born in the United States, he is eligible to represent Japan through his mother and featured in all four of the country’s matches at this summer’s World Cup.
The 23-year-old has played 59 times for Parma since arriving from J-League club Urawa Red Diamonds in 2024.
Suzuki’s expected arrival could pave the way for Martinez to join Juventus, who have shown interest in the 33-year-old during the summer transfer window.
Football operations director Damian Vidagany previously stated that Martinez would remain at Villa Park, but a departure before the transfer deadline now appears increasingly likely.
The Argentina goalkeeper, a World Cup champion in 2022 and a runner-up to Spain this year, moved to Villa from Arsenal for £17m in 2020.
He has since recorded 256 appearances and helped Villa secure the Europa League in May, ending the club’s 30-year wait for a trophy.
Martinez did not feature in Wednesday’s Super Cup loss to Paris St-Germain after Unai Emery granted him, Ezri Konsa and Ollie Watkins a month-long break following the World Cup.
He was expected to resume full training this week ahead of Villa’s Premier League opening match away to Brighton on Sunday at 14:00 BST.
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