Aston Villa are reportedly on the verge of completing a €35m deal to sign Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Crusaders have agreed terms with the reigning UEFA Europa League holders over the Japanese star’s move to Villa Park.
Suzuki has been one of the most sought-after goalkeepers this summer. In addition to Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain had also tried to take him away from Stadio Ennio Tardini. PSG considered the 23-year-old an upgrade on Matvey Safonov and Lucas Chevalier but couldn’t find an agreement with Parma.
Despite being one of the latest teams to join the race for Suzuki, Unai Emery’s men have stolen a march on their rivals and are now on the brink of securing the highly-rated goalkeeper’s signature. Indeed, the official announcement could come in the coming days, with Suzuki traveling to England for medicals.
Our take on Aston Villa & Suzuki
Villa’s decision to purchase Suzuki testifies to the club’s decision to part ways with long-serving stalwart Emiliano Marrtinez. One of the club’s highest earners could soon leave Birmingham, with Juventus reportedly keen to bring him to Serie A.
As for Villa, Suzuki’s arrival marks the beginning of a new era. Indeed, the Lions have undergone major changes this summer, with Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne leaving the club. Heavily linked with a move to Turin, Martinez is expected to follow in their footsteps.