Villa sign Japanese keeper Suzuki, Italian defender Ruggeri

Aston Villa has strengthened their defensive lineup by signing Japan international goalkeeper Zion Suzuki and Italian defender Matteo Ruggeri. The 23-year-old Suzuki, who had an impressive World Cup performance, is expected to prompt the departure of Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez from Villa. Martinez, who won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022, has been a target for several Italian clubs.

Suzuki, born in the United States, marked his debut for Japanese club Urawa Red Diamonds at the age of 18 and subsequently played for Belgian side Sint-Truiden before spending the last two seasons with Parma in Serie A. At a cost of around 35 million euros (US$40 million), Suzuki will become Villa's first Japanese goalkeeper in the Premier League.

Manager Unai Emery further bolstered Villa's defense by securing the services of left-back Ruggeri from La Liga's Atletico Madrid. The 24-year-old Ruggeri, who started his career at Italian club Atalanta, where he won the 2024 Europa League, has made 47 appearances across all competitions for Diego Simeone's side. Despite being called up to the Italian national team's under-21 squad, Ruggeri has yet to make his full international debut.

Villa, who finished fourth in the Premier League last season, are set to participate in the Champions League this season. Losses of midfielders Morgan Rogers to Chelsea and Youri Tielemans to Manchester United have prompted the club to sign young talent such as 20-year-old Johan Manzambi, who performed well for Switzerland at the World Cup, and loan Alejandro Garnacho from Chelsea.