Emi Martinez transfer news: Chelsea complete signing of Argentina international goalkeeper from Aston Villa
Chelsea sign Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa on a three-year contract in deal worth £7.5m; 2022 World Cup winner had been demoted to second choice at Villa Park after arrival of Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki from Parma
Sunday 30 August 2026 11:51, UK
Chelsea have signed Emi Martinez from Aston Villa on a three-year deal.
The transfer is worth £7.5m, with Martinez coming in and expecting to be a regular starter at Chelsea.
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Martinez said: "I'm delighted to be at this football club.
"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.
"I want to be successful here. I'm someone who wants to win at everything I do and I want to bring that here to this football club because it's a football club that wins titles, so I think it's a good match.
"I'm all passion and I play with my heart. I will give 100 per cent every game, every training session to make the club, my team-mates and the supporters proud."
Sky Sports News reported Chelsea were considering a late move for Martinez after current No 1 Robert Sanchez came under criticism after his error in last Monday's win at Fulham.
Martinez had needed to find a new club after Villa signed Zion Suzuki from Parma for nearly £30m.
He was the subject of interest from Juventus but they chose to sign Guglielmo Vicario from Spurs.
Martinez joins Villa exodus
Martinez becomes the latest high-profile player to leave Villa following Ezri Konsa, Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne out of Villa Park, with Ollie Watkins also on the verge of an exit.
The Argentinian joined Villa in 2020 and was a key player in their rise to the top table of English football, culminating in last season's Europa League success.
Villa said in a statement: "Emi joined the club from Arsenal in 2020 and has been a commanding presence in goal throughout his time at the club, which culminated in him helping Villa win the UEFA Europa League in May.
"He earned his first international caps while at Aston Villa, going on to win two Copa América titles and a FIFA World Cup with Argentina.
"He was also twice named the world's number one goalkeeper, picking up successive Yashin Trophies in 2023 and 2024 as well as two The Best FIFA Football awards.
"With his stellar performances and infectious competitive nature, Emi will always be remembered for his part in our recent journey and success and leaves Aston Villa with the very best wishes of everyone at the football club."
