Japan goalkeeper Suzuki joins Aston Villa from Parma for £30m

Aston Villa have confirmed the signing of Japan international goalkeeper Zion Suzuki from Italian side Parma for a fee in the region of £30 million.

Suzuki, 23, joins Villa Park as the club seeks a long-term number one goalkeeper. The move comes after Emi Martinez's transfer to Juventus collapsed over the weekend, with the two clubs unable to agree on a fee. Martinez, who helped Villa win the Europa League in May and won the 2022 World Cup with Argentina, now faces an uncertain future following the failed transfer.

The goalkeeper spent two years at Parma, making 59 appearances for the Serie A side. Villa view Suzuki as their number one potentially for the next decade.

Suzuki was born in the United States and earned 28 caps for Japan. At age 20, he turned down interest from Manchester United to join Belgian Pro League side Sint-Truiden on loan from Japanese team Urawa Red Diamonds in 2023. When asked about rejecting the Manchester United opportunity at the time, he stated he decided to transfer as a step up in his development.

The 6ft 3in goalkeeper impressed during his time in Belgium despite his relative inexperience in European football. His move to Aston Villa represents a significant step in his career, taking him directly to the Premier League.

Aston Villa also confirmed the signing of left-back Matteo Ruggeri from La Liga side Atletico Madrid for £17 million. Ruggeri, an Italian full-back, has represented Italy at all levels apart from senior international football.