Aston Villa announced on Wednesday they have signed Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, which could hasten the departure of Argentina ‘keeper Emiliano Martinez from the Premier League club.
Suzuki, who represented Japan at the FIFA World Cup this year, joins on a permanent transfer for a reported fee of around 35 million euros ($40 million).
Born in the United States of America (USA), Suzuki made his debut for Japanese club Urawa Red Diamonds aged 18.
Following a short stint in Belgium with Sint-Truiden, he spent the past two seasons with Serie A side Parma, making 59 appearances and helping them finish 13th last season.
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The 23-year-old will be the first Japanese goalkeeper to play in the Premier League.
Martinez, who won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022 and played in this year’s final, has been a target for Italian clubs.
He helped Villa win the Europa League in May; however, he faces an uncertain future after his failed move to Juventus, as the two clubs were unable to agree a fee.
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