Aston Villa are close to landing Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, increasing uncertainty over Emi Martinez’s future.
Suzuki, a Japan international and one of Villa’s preferred options if Martinez departs, is moving toward a deal understood to be around £30m. Born in the United States and eligible for Japan through his mother, he started all four of Japan’s matches at this summer’s World Cup. The 23-year-old has made 59 appearances for Parma since arriving from 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 this window. Although director of football operations Damian Vidagany had previously indicated Martinez would remain, a transfer before the deadline now appears more likely.
Martinez, Argentina’s 2022 World Cup winner and this year’s runner-up to Spain, joined Villa from Arsenal for £17m in 2020. He has played 256 times for the club and helped end a 30-year wait for silverware by winning the Europa League in May.
He missed Wednesday’s Super Cup defeat to Paris St-Germain after Unai Emery granted him, Ezri Konsa, and Ollie Watkins a month off following the World Cup. Martinez had been set to return to full training this week ahead of Sunday’s Premier League opener at Brighton (14:00 BST).