Chelsea have opened discussions with Emiliano Martínez’s representatives as they assess the possibility of signing the Aston Villa goalkeeper before the transfer window closes.
According to BBC Sport, the 33-year-old Argentina international could be available for a move after Villa strengthened their goalkeeping department with the recent £30 million signing of Japan international Zion Suzuki from Parma. Chelsea’s interest has also been fuelled by concerns over Robert Sánchez following his error-strewn display in the Blues’ 3-2 Premier League victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Martínez has attracted interest from Juventus this summer, although a potential transfer fell through after the Italian club raised concerns about a finger injury. Juventus subsequently brought in Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario on loan.
A move to Stamford Bridge could further strengthen the recent transfer links between Chelsea and Villa. The clubs have completed several significant deals, including Morgan Rogers’ £117 million move to Chelsea, while Alejandro Garnacho has gone the other way on an initial loan agreement.
Villa are also interested in Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson, who is valued at about £65 million and could link up again with manager Unai Emery. The two clubs have previously completed transfers viewed as “PSR swaps”, including Ian Maatsen’s move to Villa and Omari Kellyman’s switch to Chelsea.
Meanwhile, Chelsea manager Xavi Alonso has continued to back Sánchez despite his difficult start to the season. Alonso said his discussions with the goalkeeper had centred on the team rather than his individual performance, while emphasising that Chelsea are still working through a period of development and adjustment.
Chelsea’s second-choice goalkeeper Mike Penders is also in contention to feature against Luton Town in the Carabao Cup. With the club now assessing Martínez’s availability, the goalkeeping position could become a key area of focus for Chelsea ahead of the transfer deadline.
