Chelsea signs Aston Villa goalkeeper Martinez on a three-year deal

Chelsea, a competitor in the English Premier League, announced on Sunday the signing of goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez from Aston Villa on a three-year contract.

The financial details of the deal were not disclosed, but British media reported that Chelsea paid approximately £7.5 million ($10.15 million) to secure the player’s services.

Martinez, 33, said in a statement: “I want to achieve success here… I am someone who wants to win at everything I do, and I want to bring that spirit to this club, because it wins titles, so I believe this alignment is good.”

Martinez’s departure follows Villa’s signing of Japanese international Zion Suzuki from Parma earlier this month, paving the way for the Argentine goalkeeper to leave Villa Park after six years.

Martinez played 256 matches for Villa after joining from Arsenal in 2020, establishing himself as one of the standout goalkeepers in the English Premier League.

He played a key role last season as Unai Emery’s team finished fourth, qualifying for the UEFA Champions League and winning the UEFA Europa League.

Martinez is set to compete with Robert Sanchez for the starting goalkeeper position at Chelsea. Sanchez has been the first-choice keeper since joining from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2023, but questions about his place in the lineup resurfaced after errors in Chelsea’s 3-2 opening-day victory over Fulham.

Martinez also played a pivotal role in Argentina’s international success, helping them win the 2022 FIFA World Cup and reach second place in the 2026 edition. He also won the Copa América title in 2021 and 2024.

His departure marks another significant exit for Aston Villa during a busy transfer window. Morgan Rogers joined Chelsea for a record fee in British football history, while Youri Tielemans moved to Manchester United.

Other players who left the club include Jadon Sancho, Douglas Luiz, and Luca de la Torre.