Chelsea in contact over move for Villa goalkeeper Martinez

What the report says

Chelsea are weighing up a move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez after making contact with the Argentina international’s representatives, BBC Sport Football reports. The 33-year-old is said to be available for a possible transfer following Villa’s signing of Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki from Parma earlier this month.

The report says any approach would come amid a busy transfer relationship between Chelsea and Villa. The clubs have already completed several recent deals, including Chelsea’s purchase of Morgan Rogers and Alejandro Garnacho’s move the other way, while striker Nicolas Jackson could also join Villa. BBC Sport Football also notes that the two sides have previously completed a separate transaction involving Ian Maatsen and Omari Kellyman.

Martinez had earlier attracted interest from Juventus, but that move reportedly fell through because of concerns over a finger injury. Chelsea’s interest comes at a time when manager Xavi Alonso has been asked about the form of current first-choice goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, whose errors in the opening Premier League game against Fulham drew attention despite Chelsea’s win. Mike Penders is another option in Chelsea’s squad. The potential pursuit of Martinez would add experience in goal if the club decides to act, though the BBC report does not say a deal is imminent.