By Francis Onyach - Reporter
UK, 27 August 2026 - Chelsea are considering a late move for Emiliano Martínez as the transfer window approaches its deadline, with the Aston Villa goalkeeper reportedly keen on joining the London club.
The latest reports indicate that Martínez has given the green light to a potential Chelsea move, while discussions are taking place internally at Stamford Bridge over whether to proceed. However, it is important to distinguish between the player's willingness to move and a completed transfer: Chelsea have not yet reached an agreement with Aston Villa, and the deal remains under consideration.
The situation has developed rapidly following Chelsea's concerns over their goalkeeping position.
Chelsea entered the season with Robert Sánchez competing for the No. 1 position, while 21-year-old Mike Penders was viewed as a longer-term option.
However, Sánchez's performances have reportedly prompted Chelsea to reconsider their plans. The Spaniard came under scrutiny following a difficult opening Premier League match against Fulham, increasing the appeal of bringing in an experienced goalkeeper before the deadline.
Martínez would represent a very different profile.
At 33, the Argentine offers enormous Premier League experience and has already performed under intense pressure at both club and international level. He has also won the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina and the Golden Glove at that tournament.
Martínez's situation at Aston Villa has changed dramatically this summer.
Villa signed Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki from Parma for around £30 million, effectively providing the club with a new long-term No. 1 and leaving Martínez's future uncertain.
The Argentine had already been linked with a departure earlier in the summer, with a proposed move to Juventus failing to materialise.
Unai Emery has previously acknowledged that Martínez has wanted a new challenge, while Villa have been preparing for life beyond their long-serving goalkeeper.
That makes Chelsea a potentially logical destination.
Reports indicate that Martínez is enthusiastic about Chelsea's project and would welcome the opportunity to move to Stamford Bridge.
That does not mean the transfer is guaranteed.
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The decision ultimately rests with Chelsea, who must determine whether Martínez represents the right solution for both the short and medium term. The club are reportedly holding internal discussions before deciding whether to make a formal move.
The financial side could also make the deal attractive. Reports suggest Martínez could be available for a relatively modest fee compared with the cost of signing an established Premier League goalkeeper, although the exact figure has not been confirmed by Chelsea or Villa.
Tottenham had previously been linked with Martínez, particularly after Guglielmo Vicario's move to Juventus.
However, the latest information suggests Spurs are currently satisfied with their goalkeeping options, particularly Antonín Kinský and Martin Dúbravka, and are therefore not actively pursuing Martínez at this stage.
That leaves Chelsea in a potentially favourable position if they decide to move.
For Chelsea, signing Martínez would be a fascinating gamble.
His experience, mentality and ability to perform in decisive moments are undeniable. He could immediately provide competition for Sánchez and potentially establish himself as the club's first-choice goalkeeper.
But at 33, Martínez would not represent a long-term solution.
Chelsea's investment in Penders suggests the club still wants to develop a younger goalkeeper for the future. Martínez would therefore be more of an immediate stabilising presence than the foundation of the position for the next decade.
With the deadline approaching, Chelsea now face a straightforward decision.
Martínez wants the move. Villa are open to his departure. Chelsea are considering it.
But until the Blues make their final decision and negotiate an agreement with Aston Villa, Emiliano Martínez remains a Villa player rather than a Chelsea player.