Villa close in on Suzuki with Martinez future in doubt

What the report says

Aston Villa are moving closer to signing Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, according to BBC Sport Football, in a development that has increased uncertainty around Emi Martinez’s future at the club. The report says the Japan international has been one of Villa’s main options if Martinez leaves this summer, and that talks over a deal, widely reported at about £30m, are progressing.

Suzuki, 23, was born in the United States but represents Japan through his mother. He has earned 28 caps since his debut in 2022 and featured in all four of Japan’s matches at the World Cup this summer. Before joining Parma in 2024 from Urawa Red Diamonds, he played in Japan’s J-League and has since made 59 appearances for the Italian club.

The article says Martinez could now be on the way to Juventus, which has shown interest in the Argentina goalkeeper. Villa’s director of football operations, Damian Vidagany, had earlier indicated Martinez would remain at Villa Park, but the BBC says a departure is now more likely before the transfer deadline.

Martinez, 33, joined Villa from Arsenal in 2020 for £17m and has made 256 appearances. He played a key role in ending the club’s long wait for silverware by helping them win the Europa League in May. In broader context, Villa’s goalkeeping situation matters because it could reshape their squad shortly before the Premier League season begins.