Aston Villa are preparing for the potential exit of goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez by accelerating a move for Parma’s Zion Suzuki. Juventus have revived their interest in Martínez, who is increasingly likely to depart during this transfer window. Villa are advancing a deal to sign Suzuki as the Argentina No 1’s replacement. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 4th in Premier League, 65 pts, 19W-8D-11L from 38 games, recent form WWDLL.
What’s happening with Emiliano Martínez?
Martínez, under contract until 2029, is Villa’s highest earner. Juventus initially had an offer dismissed earlier this summer but have now revisited a move for the 33-year-old. Villa had hoped to retain Martínez as their No 1, but financial constraints and the need to comply with Premier League rules may force a sale. The Argentina international was among the players given an extended post-World Cup break by Unai Emery.
Who is Zion Suzuki?
The 23-year-old Japanese goalkeeper, born in the US to a Ghanaian father and Japanese mother, was raised in Japan. He started all four of Japan’s games at the World Cup and has been tracked by several Premier League clubs. Suzuki began his career at Urawa Red Diamonds before joining Belgian club Sint-Truiden on loan and later establishing himself at Parma. Villa expect to complete the £17m signing of the Atlético Madrid full-back Matteo Ruggeri in the coming days.
What else is happening at Villa Park?
Villa have sold Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne this summer. There remain doubts over whether they can retain Ezri Konsa, with Arsenal keen but reluctant to meet Villa’s £60m valuation. Emery is pushing to sign Bayern Munich midfielder João Palhinha after Amadou Onana’s ACL injury at the World Cup. Villa are also interested in West Ham defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson is among Emery’s preferred attacking targets, but cannot join on loan after Alejandro Garnacho’s arrival.
What’s next for Aston Villa?
With the new season approaching, Villa are focused on strengthening their squad. Their last result was a 2-1 win over Manchester City on 24 May 2026, and they finished 4th in the Premier League last season with 65 points. Their next fixture is an away match against Hull City on 5 September 2026.
