Chelsea Sign Emiliano Martinez From Aston Villa on Two-Year Deal
Chelsea have completed the signing of Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa on a two-year contract, with an option for a further season. The 33-year-old arrives for a reported £7.5m and immediately intensifies the fight to become Xabi Alonso’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Martinez joins after rapid move
- Martinez’s proposed transfer to Juventus fell through earlier in August.
- His representatives then opened talks with Chelsea, with the west London club moving quickly to secure a deal.
- The goalkeeper has now signed an initial two-year Stamford Bridge agreement, including a club-controlled option for a third campaign.
- He joins following Chelsea’s 3-2 opening-day win at Fulham on Monday, a match in which Robert Sanchez made two costly-looking high-profile mistakes.
Martinez said the move was straightforward for both himself and his family, describing himself as thrilled to join Chelsea and eager to begin work.
The Argentina international made clear that trophies are the target. He said Chelsea’s record of winning silverware suited his own mentality, adding that he will bring full commitment in every match and training session.
What happens next
Martinez is expected to challenge Sanchez for the No 1 shirt immediately. Sanchez, 28, is starting his fourth season at Chelsea and has played 112 times for the club, but his place is under increased pressure after the Fulham display.
Mike Penders, 21, also remains in contention after an impressive loan spell at Strasbourg last season. Chelsea now have three serious options in goal as they attempt to recover from last term’s 10th-place Premier League finish and push back towards European qualification.
Villa exit ends six-year spell
Martinez leaves Aston Villa having made 256 appearances across six seasons. He became a major figure under Unai Emery, helping Villa achieve two top-four finishes and win the UEFA Europa League in May.
His Villa departure followed the arrival of 24-year-old Zion Suzuki from Parma. Suzuki was recruited as the club’s new clear first choice, while Martinez was subsequently made to train away from the senior squad.
Before moving to Villa, Martinez spent 10 years with Arsenal and played a key role in their 2020 FA Cup success. Internationally, the two-time Yashin Trophy winner has been central to Argentina’s run of two Copa America titles and their 2022 World Cup triumph.
