Chelsea have completed the signing of Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa, bringing the experienced 33-year-old to Stamford Bridge on a permanent transfer.
The Premier League club confirmed the move on Sunday, with Martinez signing a three-year contract as he begins a new chapter after six seasons at Aston Villa. Reports put the transfer fee at around £7.5 million.
Martinez arrives with an impressive record at both club and international level. He was Argentina’s goalkeeper when the country won the 2022 FIFA World Cup and has also won the Copa America twice, in 2021 and 2024.
He has earned 67 international caps and has established himself as one of the most experienced goalkeepers in world football.
His move to Chelsea also comes after a major change in his position at Aston Villa. Villa recently brought in Japan international Zion Suzuki, increasing competition for the goalkeeper’s position and opening the door for Martinez to seek another challenge.
Martinez leaves Villa after making 256 appearances for the club since joining from Arsenal in September 2020.
During his time at Villa Park, he became one of the key figures in the club’s rise in English football and helped the team secure the UEFA Europa League title in May 2026.
Before establishing himself at Villa, Martinez spent several years at Arsenal and had a number of loan spells as he worked his way towards regular first-team football.
His breakthrough at Arsenal came during the 2019/20 season, when he played a major role in the club’s FA Cup success before moving permanently to Aston Villa.
His performances for Villa and Argentina also earned him the Yashin Trophy at the 2023 and 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremonies, recognising him as the world’s outstanding goalkeeper in those years.
At Chelsea, Martinez is expected to bring experience and competition to a goalkeeping department that has faced questions over consistency. He is set to compete with Robert Sanchez for the starting position.
Speaking after completing the move, Martinez said joining Chelsea was an easy decision for him and his family, adding that he wants to help the club win trophies.
He also promised to give his best in every match and training session as he begins life at Stamford Bridge.
For Chelsea, the signing gives new manager Xabi Alonso another experienced option as the club continues to build a squad capable of challenging for major honours.
For Martinez, the move provides an opportunity to continue competing at the highest level of English football while starting a fresh chapter after a highly successful spell at Aston Villa.