LONDON, Aug 19 — 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 World Cup this year, joins on a permanent transfer for a reported fee of around €35 million (RM165 million).

Born in the United States, 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.

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. — AFP