Chelsea have secured the signing of goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez from Aston Villa on a three-year contract, the club confirmed on Sunday. While the official fee was not released, reports from British media suggest the transfer cost approximately £7.5 million ($10.15 million).
The 33-year-old Argentine expressed his enthusiasm about joining the West London side, stating his ambition to succeed and contribute to a club known for winning titles. Martinez emphasized his determination to bring a winning mentality to Chelsea, aligning with the club’s rich history of success.
Martinez’s departure from Aston Villa follows the club’s recent acquisition of Japanese international goalkeeper Zion Suzuki from Parma, signaling a transition in Villa’s goalkeeping ranks and opening the door for Martinez’s exit after six years at Villa Park.
Since joining Villa from Arsenal in 2020, Martinez has amassed 256 appearances and established himself as one of the Premier League’s top goalkeepers. His performances were crucial last season as the team achieved a fourth-place finish in the league, securing a Champions League spot, and triumphed in the Europa League under manager Unai Emery.
New Competition at Chelsea
At Chelsea, Martinez is poised to compete with Robert Sanchez for the first-choice goalkeeper position. Sanchez, who arrived from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2023, has been the starting keeper but has faced scrutiny following errors in Chelsea’s narrow 3-2 victory against Fulham on the opening day of the season.
Beyond his club career, Martinez has also played an integral role on the international stage, notably contributing to Argentina’s victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, further underscoring his experience and calibre as a top-tier goalkeeper.