Transfers
Suzuki joins the reigning Europa League champions on a permanent transfer for a reported fee of around 35 million euros ($40 million) from Serie A outfit Parma.
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 Italian side Parma.
Suzuki lands in West Midlands
Suzuki will be the first Japanese goalkeeper to play in the Premier League. He joins Villa following in the footsteps of compatriots Mana Iwabuchi, Maya Hijikata and Akane Okuma, who have all represented the club’s women’s team – the latter also arriving this summer and lining up between the sticks.
“I’m very excited and I’m very happy to be here to start my new journey,” he said in a club statement. “I think this is the right club to start my first journey in the Premier League.
“And also they (Villa) are always competing for trophies. I want to play at the highest level and that’s why I’ve decided to come here.”
“It was a great two seasons in Italy and also the World Cup as well. My dream is to play in the Premier League, now it is time for me to play in the Premier League.
“I want to prove myself at this highest level. I’m really looking forward to playing on the pitch.”
Qadsiah build with Reijnders
Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders completed a move from Manchester City to Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah on Wednesday in a deal reportedly worth 61 million euros ($71 million).
Reijnders, who represented the Netherlands at the recent World Cup, has signed a contract that runs until 2031.
Reijnders made 47 appearances in all competitions under former City manager Pep Guardiola last season, scoring seven goals, as the club won the FA Cup and League Cup and will now feature under Brendan Rogers at his new club.
Al Qadsiah are making their return to the Asian stage this season with their opening AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27™ match to be played on September 14 against UAE’s Al Wasl FC.
Circati leaves for Benfica
Suzuki’s former teammate at Parma, Alessandro Circati also found himself joining a new club with the Australian international signing for Portuguese giants Benfica.
The 22-year-old defender made 31 appearances for the Serie A side in the 2025/26 season and also played the entirety of the Socceroos’ campaign at the FIFA World Cup 2026 where they reached the Round of 32.
Velupillay says yes to Ingolstadt
Another Australian international Nishan Velupillay, meanwhile, will be calling Germany his new home after completing a move to FC Ingolstadt 04.
The 25-year-old midfielder played for Melbourne Victory last season and he will be determined to get lots of minutes in the German third division with his new club.
Photo: AFP
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