Chelsea has signed Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa in a deal reportedly worth £7.5 million, strengthening its goalkeeping options in the ongoing season of the Premier League.
The 33-year-old World Cup winner has agreed to a three-year contract with the Blues. The move brings an end to Martinez’s six-year spell at Aston Villa.
“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.”
Martinez’s arrival comes after Chelsea’s concerns over its goalkeeping position, with Robert Sanchez facing criticism following a number of inconsistent performances. Sanchez was at fault for a goal in Chelsea’s 3-2 Premier League win over Fulham earlier this week, prompting the club to accelerate its pursuit of the Argentine.
Villa had already signed Japan international Zion Suzuki from Parma for close to £30 million, paving the way for Martinez’s departure. A proposed move to Juventus had collapsed earlier in the month.
Martinez joined Villa from Arsenal in 2020 and established himself as one of the Premier League’s leading goalkeepers. He played 256 matches for the club and was a key figure in Villa’s rise to European football.
His reputation was enhanced further by his performances for his national side, particularly during Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph. Martinez made a crucial save in the final against France before starring in the penalty shootout as the Albiceleste won the trophy.
The goalkeeper has also won the Yashin Trophy twice in 2023 and 2024, underlining his standing among the world’s elite goalkeepers.
Chelsea’s decision to bring in Martinez gives new manager Xabi Alonso an experienced option between the posts as the club looks to challenge for major honours.
Published on Aug 30, 2026
