Chelsea eye Martinez as goalkeeper concerns grow

Chelsea have opened discussions with the representatives of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez as they explore a possible move for the Argentina international before the transfer window closes.

The 33-year-old is believed to be available after Villa signed Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki from Parma for around £30m, while Chelsea are assessing their goalkeeping options following Robert Sanchez’s difficult start to the new Premier League campaign.

Sanchez came under scrutiny in Chelsea’s 3-2 victory over Fulham after being beaten at his near post by Josh King before spilling another effort that eventually led to Gonzalo Garcia’s goal.

Manager Xavi Alonso has defended Sanchez but Chelsea’s interest in Martinez suggests the club are considering competition for the position.

Martinez has attracted interest from several clubs this summer, with Juventus previously attempting to sign him before the proposed move collapsed over concerns surrounding a finger injury.

A move to Stamford Bridge would also continue the close transfer relationship between Chelsea and Villa. Chelsea recently signed Morgan Rogers from Villa for a club-record £117m, while Alejandro Garnacho moved to Villa on an initial loan deal.

Villa are also interested in Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, who could be reunited with Emery if a deal is agreed.

Martinez has been an important figure for Villa since joining the club from Arsenal in 2020 and has established himself as Argentina’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Chelsea also have 20-year-old Mike Penders as another option. The Belgian goalkeeper returned to the club after a successful loan spell at Strasbourg and could feature in Thursday’s Carabao Cup match against Luton Town.

“He’s in the squad, so he has an opportunity,” Alonso said when asked about Penders.

Chelsea must now decide whether to make a formal approach for Martinez, while Villa will have to determine whether the experienced goalkeeper remains part of Emery’s plans following the arrival of Suzuki.