Emiliano 'Dibu' Martínez to join Chelsea from Aston Villa in £7.5-million deal

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez will join Chelsea from Aston Villa for £7.5 million (US$10.1 million), with the World Cup winner now facing a new challenge in west London.

The 33-year-old is set to sign a two-year contract with Chelsea, with an option to extend his stay for a further year.

Martínez is expected to undergo a medical before completing the move, which comes after Aston Villa signed Japan international Zion Suzuki from Parma and made him their first-choice goalkeeper.

Chelsea moved for Martínez after doubts emerged over current number one Robert Sanchez, who came under scrutiny following errors in Monday's 3-2 victory at Fulham.

Martínez joined Villa from Arsenal in 2020 and established himself as one of the Premier League's leading goalkeepers.

He was also instrumental in Argentina's 2022 World Cup triumph, winning the Golden Glove after making decisive saves in the final against France.

The stopper has been seeking a move for the last two seasons, but the agreement between Chelsea and Aston Villa ensures he will continue playing in the Premier League.

It is unsure if he will line up alongside his international teammate Enzo Fernández, who is coveted by Manchester City, where he would reunite with former Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca.

Any move for Fernández would involve big spending with the goalscoring midfielder expected to cost more than £100 million.

– TIMES/AFP