Chelsea have bolstered their goalkeeping options with the signing of Argentina international Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa, handing the experienced shot-stopper a three-year contract, the club confirmed on Sunday.
The transfer fee was not revealed by either club, although reports in the British media have put the deal at approximately 7.5 million pounds ( US Dollars 10.15 million). Martinez brings an end to a memorable six-year spell at Villa Parkhaving joined the Midlands club from Arsenal in 2020. His departure had appeared increasingly likely after Villa brought in Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki from Parma earlier this month.
“I’m delighted to be at this football club,” Martinez said. “Coming to Chelsea, for me and my family, was an easy decision to make and I’m just over the moon – I can’t wait to get started.”
“I want to be successful here. I’m someone who wants to win at everything I do and I want to bring that here to this football club because it’s a football club that wins titles, so I think it’s a good match.”
“I’m all passion and I play with my heart. I will give 100 per cent every game, every training session to make the club, my teammates and the supporters proud.”
During his time with Villa, the 33-year-old featured 256 times and developed into one of the most accomplished goalkeepers in English football. He was an important part of Unai Emery’s side last season as they secured a top-four finish, earning a place in the Champions League, while also lifting the Europa League.
At Stamford Bridge, Martinez will compete with Robert Sanchez for the No. 1 spot. Sanchez has been Chelsea’s preferred goalkeeper since his move from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2023, but his position has once again come under scrutiny following errors in the Blues’ 3-2 win over Fulham in their opening match of the season.
Martinez’s reputation has also been built on his success with Argentina. The goalkeeper played a major role in their 2022 World Cup triumph and their run to the final in 2026, while also winning the Copa America in both 2021 and 2024.
His move to Chelsea adds to a series of notable departures from Aston Villa in a hectic transfer window. Morgan Rogers has made a record-breaking move to Chelsea, while Youri Tielemans has joined Manchester United. Jadon Sancho, Douglas Luiz and Lucas Digne have also moved on from Villa Park.
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