Chelsea have reached an agreement with Aston Villa to sign Argentina international goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez in a deal reportedly worth £7.5 million, with the player expected to undergo a medical before completing the transfer.
The agreement comes after Chelsea opened talks with Martínez’s representatives as the club looked to strengthen its goalkeeping department.
The 33-year-old goalkeeper is expected to sign a two-year contract with an option for a further year, according to reports surrounding the agreement.
Martínez had already indicated his desire to leave Aston Villa, while the club had moved to strengthen its own goalkeeping options with the signing of Zion Suzuki.
The Argentine has spent six years at Villa after leaving Arsenal in 2020 and has established himself as one of the club’s most recognisable players.
He was a key member of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad and has twice been recognised with the Yashin Trophy as the world’s best goalkeeper.
Martínez’s proposed move to Stamford Bridge comes after Chelsea experienced concerns over the position during the early stages of the season.
The club has been looking for greater competition and experience between the posts, and Martínez’s international pedigree makes him a significant addition to the squad.
The transfer is subject to the completion of his medical and final formalities.
Reports indicate that the deal was agreed between Chelsea and Villa at £7.5 million, with Martínez expected to become the latest player to move between the two clubs during an increasingly active transfer relationship.
For Chelsea, the move represents a relatively short-term solution with an experienced goalkeeper capable of competing immediately for the starting position.
For Villa, Martínez’s departure would mark the end of a significant chapter after he made more than 250 appearances for the club and helped them win the Europa League last season.
The final completion of the deal will depend on the medical and registration process.