Zion Suzuki is the latest player to make the move from the Meiji Yasuda J.League to Sint-Tuiden after agreeing to join the Belgian club on loan from Urawa Reds. The goalkeeper will spend the upcoming season at Sint-Truiden and the club will hold an option to make the deal permanent next summer.
Suzuki has emerged as arguably the most promising young Japanese goalkeeper in recent years, with not just excellent shot stopping, but an uncanny ability to read the game. At just 20 years old, Suzuki played in J1, cup and AFC Champions League matches this season, showing the capability to handle all levels of play.
Suzuki had interest from Manchester United in the Premier League earlier this summer, but snubbed the English club to join a side where playing time would be more regular and aid his development. He chose Sint-Truiden, which finished midtable in the Belgian top flight a year ago and features a slew of Japanese players, including fellow goalkeeper Daniel Schmidt.