Villa close in on Suzuki with Martinez future in doubt

Aston Villa is making significant progress in securing the signature of Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, who is seen as a potential replacement for Emi Martinez. The Japanese international, born in America but qualified for Japan through his mother, has caught Villa's attention as Martinez's future at the club becomes increasingly uncertain.

Suzuki, 23, has played 59 matches for Parma since joining from J-League side Urawa Red Diamonds in 2024. His high-profile arrival would see Martinez potentially head to Juventus, as the Italian club has shown interest in the 33-year-old Argentine.

Villa's director of football operations, Damian Vidagany, had previously assured that Martinez would remain at Villa Park. However, the likelihood of Martinez leaving before the transfer deadline is now higher than ever. Martinez, a former Arsenal player who joined Villa for £17m in 2020, has made 256 appearances for the club and played a crucial role in their Europa League triumph in May.

With Suzuki closing in on Villa, Martinez is likely to miss Wednesday's Super Cup match against Paris St-Germain, as Unai Emery has given him and other players a month-long break following the World Cup. Martinez was expected to return to full training this week, preparing for Villa's upcoming Premier League opener against Brighton on Sunday.