Aston Villa are positioning themselves to make a move for Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, amid a fresh update on Emiliano Martinez’s future.
Martinez is currently focused on helping Argentina retain their World Cup crown, with his side in line to take on England in the semi-final, should they progress past Switzerland and the Three Lions defeat Norway.
However, the Argentina star will have a decision to make when the World Cup comes to an end, after being heavily linked with a move away from Villa Park last summer.
The 33-year-old remains under contract until the summer of 2029, meaning the Villans remain in a strong negotiating position.
However, should they decide to cash-in, a replacement will be necessary, and they are in the frame to sign Parma’s Suzuki, who starred for Japan at the World Cup.
Football FanCast’s Verdict
Credibility
Villa are keen to sign a new goalkeeper, with RC Lens star Robin Risser among the targets. Suzuki has also emerged as an option, as the speculation surrounding Martinez’s future rumbles on.
Finances
Parma are demanding £26m for the Japan star, which is a price rival suitors Leeds United are willing to pay. As such, Unai Emery’s side may need to move swiftly if they are going to get a deal done.
Insight
The 23-year-old could be an exciting long-term addition to Emery’s squad, having been described as “one of the most talented young keepers in Europe” by scout Jacek Kulig. Last season, he kept five clean sheets in 20 Serie A matches.
Impact
Having now gained experience in the Serie A and established himself as Japan’s first-choice goalkeeper, Suzuki could be brought in as a replacement for Martinez, who is attracting interest from Serie A side Juventus.
Aston Villa in position to launch Suzuki move amid Martinez update
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Aston Villa are now primed to launch a move for Suzuki, in a hijack of Leeds United, who still remain hopeful they will be able to get a deal done.
Martinez is in talks regarding a move to Juventus, and he is interested in joining the Italian side, exacerbating the need for Villa to start thinking about potential replacements.
Why Suzuki could be an exciting Martinez replacement
The 28-cap Japan star is experienced at the highest level, having caught the eye at the World Cup.
After the Round of 32 exit at the hands of Brazil, Alisson went over to speak to his opposite number. Suzuki said: “He said to me in Italian: ‘I saw you play last season. You had a good season.’ After the match, he said to me: ‘You played well. So, keep your head up and move on to the next one.'”
The Parma shot-stopper also impressed in the Serie A last season, averaging 3.3 saves per 90, which was the joint-second most of any goalkeeper.
Of course, Martinez has had a fantastic career, but should the Villa goalkeeper wish to move on this summer, Suzuki has proven he could be an exciting heir.
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