Aston Villa scout Zion Suzuki as Juventus push for Emiliano Martinez

Aston Villa have reportedly stepped up their interest in Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, with club scouts attending Japan's World Cup opener as uncertainty continues to surround Emiliano Martinez's future.

The 23-year-old goalkeeper featured in Japan's dramatic 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in Dallas, where former Lazio midfielder Daichi Kamada scored a late equaliser to secure a point.

According to reports in Italy, an Aston Villa scout was present at the match to assess Suzuki, who is emerging as a potential successor to Martinez if the Argentine leaves Villa Park this summer.

Suzuki has enjoyed a rapid rise since joining Parma and is increasingly attracting attention from clubs across Europe.

Born in the United States and raised in Japan, the goalkeeper has established himself as one of the most highly-rated young shot-stoppers in Serie A. His performances for both club and country have only strengthened that reputation.

Villa's reported interest comes at a crucial time as the club weigh up contingency plans surrounding Martinez.

Aston Villa have consistently targeted younger players with significant development potential. Suzuki would fit that profile while also offering experience at both international and top-flight level.

The speculation surrounding Suzuki is directly linked to growing reports that Juventus are working to sign Martinez this summer.

Italian reports claim the Argentina international has already agreed personal terms with the Turin giants, who are prepared to offer him a contract worth around €5m per season.

While that salary is reportedly lower than his current earnings at Villa Park, Juventus believe the opportunity to join one of Italy's biggest clubs appeals to the 2022 World Cup winner.

An agreement between the clubs has yet to be reached, however.

Villa are reportedly seeking a fee of around €10m for the 33-year-old, who is entering the final year of his contract. Juventus, meanwhile, are hoping to negotiate a significantly lower figure given his age, contractual situation and reported desire to make the move.

Should Martinez depart, Villa would face the difficult task of replacing one of the Premier League's most influential goalkeepers.

Suzuki's age makes him an attractive option from both a sporting and financial perspective. At 23, he offers long-term value and could potentially develop into a cornerstone of Emery's squad for years to come.

However, it remains too early to conclude that a deal is close. The reported scouting mission suggests Villa are gathering information rather than moving towards immediate negotiations.

Much will depend on whether Juventus can reach an agreement for Martinez in the coming weeks.

The immediate focus remains on Martinez and Juventus. If the Italian side can reach an agreement with Aston Villa, attention is likely to shift towards identifying a replacement.

Suzuki appears to be one of the names under serious consideration, but Villa are expected to continue assessing multiple options before making any final decision.

Would Zion Suzuki be the right replacement for Emiliano Martinez if Aston Villa lose their No.1 this summer?