CorSport: ‘I want to become one of the best’ – Milan and Chelsea keen on Parma star

Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki has responded to the rumours that he is being watched closely by AC Milan and Chelsea.

Suzuki opened up about his past, present and future in an interview with Corriere dello Sport that came out this morning. He shed some light on how he prepares for games, and some choices made that have led him to this point.

“I arrived at Urawa Red Diamonds at a very young age and stayed there for 11 years. There, I learned the technique, completed all the passes, and made my debut for the first team and the national team. Everything I’ve done has worked, which is why I don’t like change,” he said.

“I’m a calm guy, a goalkeeper always has to be that way. I cover the goal well and I know how to play with my feet. I work every day to improve in every aspect. I study my opponents and I’m very attentive to new technologies.

“I train, for example, I do exercises with special glasses and alternating lights to improve my reflexes. Pilates helps improve posture and flexibility, and strengthens the core . Then I study English and Italian. I’m happy with this moment of mine.”

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The report goes on to state that Chelsea and Milan ‘have been following him with particular interest for weeks’. He was asked about how it feels to be of interest to two top European clubs, but the Japan international didn’t give much away.

“I want to become one of the best goalkeepers in the world, and I’m very focused on Parma and the World Cup,” he said.

Milan’s scouting mission

Milan are believed to be looking into potential replacements for Mike Maignan, whose contract expires at the end of the season. At present there are no signs that he will renew, despite Fode Ballo-Toure’s bold prediction yesterday.

Among the names that has been mentioned to become the Rossoneri’s new No.1 is Suzuki, and Tuttosport even claimed over the weekend that Geoffrey Moncada watched him first hand as he saved a last-minute penalty to earn Parma a draw against Genoa.

Matteo Moretto also promoted Suzuki’s candidacy in the summer:  “I would add that Milan want to make an attempt for Suzuki from Parma , who is considered the right goalkeeper to replace Maignan due to his characteristics. Milan will certainly make an attempt, but it won’t be easy with Parma.”