Chelsea agree £7.5m fee for Villa's Martinez

Chelsea have reached an agreement to sign Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez for a fee of £7.5 million. The 33-year-old Argentine international is scheduled to undergo a medical in London, further bolstering Chelsea's goalkeeping options at Stamford Bridge. This signing comes after concerns about Robert Sanchez's performances, especially following a 3-2 win over Fulham where Sanchez conceded two goals.

Sanchez, Chelsea's first-choice goalkeeper since 2023, allowed a shot to slip through his grasp and another to Gonzalo Garcia, who scored. This transfer marks a significant shift in Chelsea's strategy, as they had been supporting Sanchez despite doubts. Mike Penders, a £17 million signing from Genk, is also a potential option for Chelsea, set to debut in the Carabao Cup against Luton Town.

Villa had been open to selling Martinez following their purchase of Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki from Parma for around £30 million. This transfer adds to a series of deals between the two clubs, with Chelsea previously signing Morgan Rogers from Villa for a club-record £117 million, and Alejandro Garnacho moving in the opposite direction on an initial loan deal.

Nicolas Jackson, valued at about £65 million, is also preparing to return to Villa Park after a medical to reunite with his former Villarreal manager, Unai Emery. The relationship between Chelsea and Villa remains strong, with both clubs involved in a swap deal that saw Ian Maatsen join Villa and Omari Kellyman move to Chelsea. Juventus had previously attempted to sign Martinez, but their deal fell through due to concerns over a finger injury. Instead, they signed Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario on loan.