Chelsea Open Talks to Sign Emiliano Martinez as Aston Villa Future Becomes Uncertain

Chelsea have opened talks over a potential move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez as the Premier League transfer deadline approaches.

The 33-year-old Argentine is reportedly keen on the switch, with uncertainty surrounding his position at Villa after the club strengthened their goalkeeping options with the arrival of Zion Suzuki from Parma.

Martinez had previously been in discussions with Juventus over a possible transfer, but that move collapsed after the Italian giants opted to sign Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario instead.

His situation at Villa has since become more uncertain. Martinez was left out of Unai Emery’s squad for Sunday’s Premier League opener against Brighton, adding to speculation that he could leave before the September 1 transfer deadline.

Chelsea’s interest comes after Robert Sanchez started their opening league match against Fulham. The Spaniard conceded twice in the 3-2 victory at Craven Cottage, with Chelsea now reportedly reconsidering their goalkeeping options.

The Blues had been linked with Martinez earlier in the transfer window but initially appeared satisfied with Sanchez and youngster Mike Penders. However, negotiations with Martinez’s representatives are now reportedly underway as Chelsea assess the possibility of bringing the experienced goalkeeper to Stamford Bridge.

Martinez joined Aston Villa in 2020 after beginning his Premier League career with Arsenal, where limited playing opportunities prompted him to seek regular first-team football. He has since made 256 appearances for Villa and won the Premier League Golden Glove in 2022, shortly before helping Argentina win the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

A departure would make Martinez one of several established Villa players to leave during the summer, following Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, Ezri Konsa and Lucas Digne. For Chelsea, meanwhile, the potential deal would add another experienced Premier League player to a squad that has already welcomed veterans including Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck.