Transfer column: Villa eye Japan international as Walsall close on deal

Not all posts are the view of the Express & Star with some from third party outlets.

Villa eye Japan international

Aston Villa have reportedly shown an interest in Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.

Reports in Italy claim the Serie A side would demand between €25 million and €30 million to sell the 23-year-old.

Villa are said to be monitoring the Japan international as Juventus continue to be linked with a move for current number one Emiliano Martinez.

Suzuki joined Parma on a permanent deal in July 2024, signing a five-year contract after initially arriving on loan. He has since established himself as the Italian club's first-choice goalkeeper.

Before moving to Europe, Suzuki came through the ranks at Urawa Red Diamonds in Japan's J-League.

Latest on Martinez

Villa's reported interest in Suzuki comes amid fresh reports linking Martinez with a move to Juventus.

According to reports in Italy, the 33-year-old has already agreed personal terms with the Turin giants.

The Argentina World Cup winner is said to have agreed a three-year contract running until 2029.

Walsall in for Austrian midfielder

Reports from Scotland suggest Walsall have agreed a deal to sign St Johnstone midfielder Sven Sprangler.

The Daily Record reported on Wednesday that the move is subject to a work visa being granted.

The report added that St Johnstone are willing to allow the 31-year-old to leave, with the transfer now dependent on the Saddlers securing the necessary paperwork.

Sprangler previously spent time on loan at League Two side Newport County last season, where he is understood to have caught Walsall's attention.