Chelsea have reportedly contacted the representatives of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez as they explore the possibility of signing the Argentina international before the transfer window closes.
According to BBC Sport, the 33-year-old goalkeeper could be available for transfer following Villa’s recent £30 million acquisition of Japan international Zion Suzuki from Parma.
Chelsea’s interest is understood to be linked to concerns over Robert Sánchez’s performances. The Spanish goalkeeper endured a difficult outing in Chelsea’s opening Premier League match against Fulham, making several errors despite the Blues eventually securing a 3-2 victory at Craven Cottage.
Martínez has also attracted interest from Juventus this summer. However, a proposed move to the Italian giants broke down after concerns emerged over a finger injury. Juventus subsequently brought in Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario on loan.
A potential deal with Chelsea would further strengthen the growing transfer relationship between the London club and Villa. The two sides have been involved in several significant deals in recent windows.
Chelsea recently signed Morgan Rogers from Villa for a club-record £117 million, while Alejandro Garnacho moved in the opposite direction on an initial loan deal. Villa are also reportedly interested in Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, who is valued at around £65 million and could be reunited with manager Unai Emery.
The clubs have previously completed deals described as “PSR swaps”, including Ian Maatsen’s move to Villa and Omari Kellyman’s transfer to Chelsea.
Meanwhile, Chelsea manager Xavi Alonso has continued to back Sánchez despite the goalkeeper’s difficult start to the season. Alonso said his discussions with the goalkeeper have focused on the team and the club’s ongoing development rather than singling out the individual.
Chelsea’s second-choice goalkeeper, Mike Penders, is also in contention to start against Luton Town in the Carabao Cup.
With Chelsea now assessing Martínez’s availability, the club’s goalkeeping situation could become one of the key transfer stories to watch as the window approaches its deadline.
About the Author
