Leeds United and Newcastle United are keen on signing 23-year-old Japanese international Zion Suzuki from Parma this summer.
According to a report by Italian outlet Tuttosport, Zion Suzuki wants to join Juventus in the ongoing transfer window and has already snubbed the advances of the Premier League clubs. So, even though Tuttosport has suggested that Leeds and Newcastle are ready to pay €30 million to sign the Parma goalkeeper, a deal to sign the 23-year-old is highly unlikely as things stand.
Zion Suzuki and his progress in Serie A so far
Zion Suzuki has made substantial progress since joining Parma from Sint-Truiden in July 2024. The player was an immediate success at the club, and he has been a pivotal figure for the Crociati in the last two seasons. His performances have helped him become a regular for Japan’s national team, and he was impressive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Japanese international made over 50 appearances for Parma thus far, conceding 83 goals and keeping 13 clean sheets. While those numbers do not scream reliability, his shot-stopping has impressed scouts and analysts in the last two seasons. Several well-known clubs, including Newcastle United, Leeds United, and Juventus, are thus vying for his signature.
What next?
Newcastle United’s interest in pursuing a goalkeeper may be surprising, but it makes sense. While Ewen Jaouen has arrived at St. James’ Park this summer, he has replaced Aaron Ramsdale, who has returned to Southampton after his loan spell. Meanwhile, Nick Pope reportedly faces an uncertain future at the club amid his links with Ipswich Town. However, Suzuki may no longer be a target, as Lukas Hornicek is closing in on joining Newcastle.
Meanwhile, Juventus’s interest in Zion Suzuki makes sense. The Serie A giants are scouring the market for a goalkeeper, as Michele Di Gregorio and Mattia Perin have been inconsistent in the last two seasons. So, Luciano Spalletti wants an upgrade between the sticks, with Suzuki emerging as a viable target.
As for Leeds United, Lucas Perri failed to make his mark in the 2025/26 season and is reportedly closing in on joining Torino. Meanwhile, Illan Meslier and Karl Darlow have left as free agents, joining Arsenal and Manchester United, respectively. So, while Leeds United are closing in on signing James Trafford, they need another goalkeeper, with Suzuki an option worth considering.
The readiness to pay €30 million to sign Suzuki signalled the intention of Leeds United and Newcastle United in the race to sign Suzuki. However, with the Japanese international having his heart set on joining Juventus, the Premier League clubs must look elsewhere, provided they still retain the objective of signing a goalkeeper.
