Chelsea have moved quickly to strengthen their goalkeeping department, signing World Cup winner Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa for a reported £7.5 million.
Chelsea’s decision to bring in Martinez comes just days after Robert Sanchez endured an error-strewn display in their Premier League opening-day victory over Fulham.
The iconic 2️⃣6️⃣
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 30, 2026
The Spaniard’s performance immediately raised questions over Chelsea’s goalkeeping situation, and the club have wasted little time addressing those concerns with the arrival of one of the Premier League’s most experienced shot-stoppers.
Martinez arrives in west London with a reputation built on big-game performances and an unmistakable personality. The 33-year-old was instrumental in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph and has also won two Copa America titles, collecting 67 international caps in the process
“I’m delighted to be at this football club,” Martinez said following his unveiling. “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.” The Argentine also made his ambitions clear, insisting that he wants to bring his winning mentality to a Chelsea side that expects to compete for major honours.
For Martinez, the move also represents the end of a hugely successful five-year spell at Villa. He joined the club from Arsenal in September 2020 and went on to make 256 appearances, establishing himself as one of their most important players.
Emi Martinez. ⚽️🧤 pic.twitter.com/PRy1D26JAe
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 30, 2026
His Villa career reached another high point last season when he started in the Europa League final as Unai Emery’s side defeated Freiburg to claim their first major trophy in 30 years.
Villa were willing to sanction his departure after bringing in Japan international Zion Suzuki from Parma, creating an opportunity for Chelsea to secure an experienced goalkeeper for a relatively modest fee. At £7.5 million, the deal could prove to be one of the more intriguing pieces of business of the transfer window if Martinez can reproduce the form that made him a fan favourite at Villa Park.
Martinez has already promised to give everything for his new club, saying: “I’m all passion, and I play with my heart.” Chelsea supporters will hope that passion, experience and his proven record on the biggest stages can help turn a potential weakness into a position of strength.
