Aston Villa are on the verge of signing Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki in a deal understood to be worth around £30 million, with the move accelerating speculation over Emi Martinez's continued presence at Villa Park.

Suzuki, 23, has emerged as Villa's primary goalkeeping target in the event of Martinez's departure. The Japan international was born in the United States but qualifies for Japan through his mother, and he featured in all four of his country's matches at this summer's World Cup.

Since his move from J-League club Urawa Red Diamonds in 2024, Suzuki has made 59 appearances for Parma, establishing himself as one of Europe's most promising young goalkeepers.

Martinez linked with Juventus move

With Suzuki's arrival appearing increasingly imminent, Martinez has been linked with a transfer to Juventus, who have maintained an interest in the 33-year-old throughout the summer window.

Director of football operations Damian Vidagany had previously stated that Martinez would remain at Villa Park, but the club's pursuit of Suzuki suggests the Argentina international is now more likely to leave before the transfer deadline.

Martinez joined Villa from Arsenal for £17 million back in 2020 and has since become one of the most decorated goalkeepers in the club's modern history. His 256 appearances included a pivotal role in ending Villa's 30-year wait for silverware — culminating in the UEFA Europa League triumph in May. He also won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022 and reached the final again this summer, where his side were beaten by Spain.

World Cup rest keeps Martinez out of Super Cup

The goalkeeper was absent from Villa's Super Cup defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday, with manager Unai Emery having granted Martinez, Ezri Konsa, and Ollie Watkins a month's rest following their World Cup exertions.

He had been expected to return to full training this week ahead of Villa's Premier League season opener against Brighton on Sunday, which kicks off at 14:00 BST.