Chelsea sign Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa on three-year deal
Chelsea confirmed on Sunday, August 30, 2026, that Argentina international Emiliano Martinez has joined the club from Aston Villa on a three-year contract. Neither club disclosed the transfer fee, although British media reported it at approximately 7.5 million pounds ( US Dollars 10.15 million).
Martinez brings to an end a six-year spell at Villa Park after joining the Midlands club from Arsenal in 2020. His departure had appeared increasingly likely after Villa signed Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki from Parma earlier this month. During his time with Villa the 33-year-old featured 256 times and, according to the club report, developed into one of the most accomplished goalkeepers in English football.
Martinez commented on the move, saying: "I’m delighted to be at this football club." He added: "Coming to Chelsea, for me and my family, was an easy decision to make and I’m just over the moon - I can’t wait to get started." He also said: "I want to be successful here. I'm someone who wants to win at everything I do and I want to bring that here to this football club because it’s a football club that wins titles, so I think it’s a good match." Martinez finished his remarks with: "I’m all passion and I play with my heart. I will give 100 per cent every game, every training session to make the club, my teammates and the supporters proud."
He played a prominent role for Unai Emery's side last season as Villa secured a top-four finish and earned a place in the Champions League. Villa also lifted the Europa League during Martinez's final campaign at the club. Those achievements formed part of his six-year tenure at Villa Park.
Robert Sanchez remains Chelsea's established option in goal, having been the club's preferred goalkeeper since his move from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2023. Sanchez's position came under scrutiny after errors in the Blues' 3-2 win over Fulham in their opening match of the season. Chelsea's goalkeeper situation now contains competing narratives around Sanchez's recent form.
Martinez's international honours were cited in coverage of the transfer: he played a major role in Argentina's 2022 World Cup triumph and in their run to the final in 2026. He also won the Copa America in 2021 and in 2024, accomplishments noted alongside his club record.
The transfer is one of several high-profile exits from Aston Villa this window. Morgan Rogers moved to Chelsea in a record-breaking transfer, Youri Tielemans joined Manchester United, and Jadon Sancho, Douglas Luiz and Lucas Digne have also left Villa Park.
Martinez's arrival establishes a direct competition for Chelsea's starting goalkeeper position at Stamford Bridge: he will contest the No. 1 role with Robert Sanchez. The club confirmed the three-year contract on Sunday, setting up a selection battle for the remainder of the season.
