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Chelsea weigh late move for Emi Martinez as Aston Villa exit looms
27th August, 2026 08:17 AM
Chelsea are exploring the possibility of making a late-window approach for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez as they assess their options between the posts.
Martinez’s representatives have made contact with Chelsea to propose a potential move for the Argentina international. The development comes after Robert Sanchez endured a difficult outing during Chelsea’s Premier League victory over Fulham on Monday, August 24, 2026, with his performance drawing criticism.
The Blues could therefore consider whether Martinez would provide greater competition or an alternative to Sanchez before the transfer window closes.
Martinez faces an uncertain future
Martinez’s situation at Aston Villa has become increasingly uncertain following the club’s decision to sign Zion Suzuki from Parma for a fee understood to be close to £30 million (approximately Ksh5.28 billion).
The arrival of the Japan international has intensified speculation that Martinez could leave Villa before the transfer deadline.
Juventus had previously shown interest in the World Cup-winning goalkeeper, but their pursuit did not result in a transfer. Instead, the Italian giants opted to bring in Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario.
Martinez has been an important figure at Villa since arriving from Arsenal in 2020. He has made 256 appearances for the club and played a major role during one of the most successful periods in Villa’s recent history.
He helped the club secure the Europa League title in May and was also part of the team that qualified for the Champions League on two occasions under manager Unai Emery.
Martinez’s impressive international record
The 33-year-old has also enjoyed remarkable success with Argentina.
Martinez was instrumental in Argentina’s triumph at the 2022 World Cup and helped his country reach the final again at the 2026 tournament, where they finished runners-up.
His international honours also include Copa America victories in 2021 and 2024, alongside the Finalissima title in 2022.
Sanchez under pressure at Chelsea
Chelsea’s interest in Martinez comes amid renewed scrutiny of Sanchez following his display against Fulham.
The goalkeeper was involved in two costly incidents during the match, although Chelsea eventually secured the victory.
Former England midfielder Paul Merson believes Martinez’s availability could present Chelsea with an opportunity to strengthen an important position.
Merson described Martinez as one of the world’s leading goalkeepers and argued that Chelsea would need a player of that calibre if they are serious about challenging among Europe’s elite.
He also acknowledged that Martinez can be a difficult personality but maintained that his quality as a goalkeeper makes him an attractive option.
Chelsea’s bigger objective
Despite the speculation, questions remain over whether Martinez alone would transform Chelsea into Premier League title contenders.
The club’s immediate priority is understood to be securing Champions League qualification after finishing 10th last season.
The debate surrounding Sanchez has nevertheless intensified, with former players questioning whether Chelsea can achieve their ambitions while continuing to rely on a goalkeeper prone to costly errors.
With the transfer window approaching its conclusion, Chelsea must now decide whether bringing in an experienced goalkeeper such as Martinez would be worthwhile or whether they should continue with their existing options.
