Aston Villa step up Zion Suzuki pursuit as Emi Martínez future remains uncertain

Aston Villa are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki as uncertainty continues to surround the future of Emiliano Martínez.

The Argentina international remains linked with a move to Juventus, and reports from Italy suggest Villa have already identified Suzuki as their preferred long-term replacement.

With Unai Emery preparing for another season of Champions League football, the Premier League club are said to be increasing their efforts to secure the highly-rated Japan international.

According to reports in Italy, Aston Villa are becoming increasingly aggressive in their attempts to sign Suzuki from Parma.

The 23-year-old returned to the Italian club's training base this week following his involvement at the FIFA World Cup, but his future remains uncertain.

Villa are believed to be using the attraction of Champions League football as part of their pitch, with the opportunity to compete at Europe's highest level viewed as a major advantage.

Villa's interest in Suzuki comes as Emiliano Martínez continues to be linked with Juventus.

The Serie A giants are understood to have already agreed personal terms with the World Cup-winning goalkeeper and remain in contact with his representatives.

However, negotiations between the two clubs have yet to produce an agreement, with Juventus and Aston Villa still apart on the transfer fee.

Should Martínez depart, Villa appear ready to move quickly for his replacement.

Parma are reportedly willing to consider selling Suzuki if their valuation is met.

The Serie A club are said to be seeking between €30 million and €35 million for the Japan international, who has established himself as one of the league's most promising young goalkeepers.

Reports also suggest Parma are prepared to sanction player sales this summer as they look to generate funds before strengthening their own squad.

Suzuki is regarded as one of the brightest young goalkeepers in European football following his impressive performances for both Parma and Japan.

At just 23 years of age, he would offer Aston Villa a long-term option between the posts should Martínez complete a move away from Villa Park.

His composure in possession and continued development have reportedly made him one of Emery's preferred candidates to lead the club's next generation.

Aston Villa are expected to monitor developments surrounding Martínez before deciding whether to submit a formal offer for Suzuki. If Juventus reach an agreement for the Argentine goalkeeper, Villa could quickly accelerate negotiations with Parma to secure his successor.