Chelsea have initiated contact over a move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The 33-year-old Argentina international is viewed as a potential transfer option after Villa completed the £30m signing of Zion Suzuki from Parma earlier this month.
Martinez, who has made 256 appearances for Villa since joining in 2020, is now available. The clubs have a recent history of transfers, including Morgan Rogers's £117m move to Chelsea and the loan of Alejandro Garnacho to Villa. A potential deal for striker Nicolas Jackson, valued around £65m, has also been discussed between the clubs.
Juventus had previously attempted to sign Martinez, but that move collapsed due to concerns over a finger injury. The Italian side instead signed Tottenham's Guglielmo Vicario on loan.
Sanchez under scrutiny
The interest from Chelsea comes amid scrutiny of their current number one, Robert Sanchez. He was criticised for errors in Chelsea's 3-2 opening-day win at Fulham, being beaten at his near post for one goal and spilling a shot that led to another.
Manager Xavi Alonso was asked about his goalkeeper ahead of Thursday's Carabao Cup match against Luton Town. "We have talked more about the team thing, about what we did well and what we have to do better," Alonso said. "It was more about understanding the context."
Alonso confirmed that backup goalkeeper Mike Penders, who returned from a loan at Strasbourg, is in contention. "He's in the squad, so he has an opportunity," the manager added. "We will decide and give the team to the players tomorrow."
Martinez's potential departure would mark a significant shift for Villa, who have relied on him as their first-choice keeper for six seasons. He was instrumental in their Europa League triumph last May and their consecutive Champions League qualifications. The club's current squad lists shows the goalkeeping options, while their upcoming fixtures include a Premier League clash with Manchester United next weekend.
