Aston Villa Eyes Japanese Keeper Suzuki as Martinez Replacement
Aston Villa is pursuing Japan's Syon Suzuki from Parma as a replacement for departing goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, with the 23-year-old impressing during the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign.
Aston Villa is targeting Japan's national team goalkeeper Syon Suzuki from Parma to replace departing Argentine keeper Emiliano Martinez in the Premier League. According to BBC, Aston Villa is openly considering selling the 33-year-old Martinez to reduce costs and lower the squad's average age. While James Trafford, Manchester City's backup goalkeeper, is one option, 23-year-old Suzuki—who delivered impressive performances for Japan's national team in the 2026 World Cup campaign—is also on the club's radar. Suzuki played every minute of the World Cup and earned substantial praise for multiple outstanding saves. Born in the United States to a Ghanaian father and Japanese mother, Suzuki's family later settled in Japan. He came through Urawa Red Devils' academy before joining Sint-Truiden on loan in 2023, then transferring permanently to Parma the following year. In his debut Serie A season, Suzuki started 37 matches and recorded 7 clean sheets, with his market value estimated around 20 million euros.
