Zion Suzuki, an acclaimed teenage goalkeeper currently with Parma, is reportedly being targeted by Manchester United. The American-born Japan international was in discussions with the Red Devils two years ago, but those negotiations fell through when Suzuki expressed his ambition to secure first-team play.
Instead, Suzuki enjoyed a breakout season in the Belgian Pro League last year after joining Sint-Truiden on loan from Urawa Red Diamonds. His success led Parma to take a chance on the young Japanese goalkeeper, acquiring him for €7.5 million (£6.3 million) shortly after Sint-Truiden activated a loan-to-buy clause at a significantly reduced price.
Since then, Suzuki has established himself as the starting goalkeeper at Stadio Ennio Tardini, aspiring to follow in the legendary footsteps of former Parma star Gianluigi Buffon.
The 22-year-old missed Parma’s defeat to Udinese due to suspension but has been a key player, starting in all but one of the team’s Serie A matches this season. According to talkSPORT, Manchester United is prepared to re-enter the race for Suzuki, but the asking price could reach as high as £40 million. With Parma intent on keeping Suzuki for at least another year, they are likely to implement measures to deter other clubs from pursuing the talented goalkeeper.
A high salary offer might persuade the Italian team to let him go, similar to Buffon’s record-breaking move to Juventus in 2001. The timing of these rumors is particularly interesting, as backup goalie Altay Bayindir recently saved two penalties in the FA Cup victory over Arsenal.
Currently, Andre Onana has been Manchester United’s top goalkeeper since joining from Inter Milan in the summer of 2023. However, these claims may indicate that new manager Ruben Amorim plans to replace the goalie as part of his upcoming overhaul at Old Trafford.
Would Suzuki be keen on a move to the Premier League? The prestige of playing for a prominent club in the world’s most-watched league is appealing, and settling in the UK wouldn’t pose a challenge for him. Born in the United States, Suzuki has demonstrated adaptability throughout his journey, having moved to Urawa with his family at a young age and debuting with the club in his hometown.
After a year in Belgium before his transfer to Italy, the Japanese international has adjusted well to life in Europe. If the rumors hold true, another move could be on the horizon. However, Suzuki might have second thoughts if he isn’t assured the starting position at Old Trafford, especially given that he previously declined a move to Manchester United.
Currently, Suzuki stands out as Japan’s top goalkeeper, but his status could be at risk if he were to leave club football just 18 months before the World Cup in his home country.