Chelsea are considering a late-window move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez, Softfootball can confirm.
Martínez has been offered to Chelsea following the arrival of Zion Suzuki at Villa Park, with the Argentina international now facing increased uncertainty over his future. The move has accelerated after Suzuki’s proposed transfer to Paris Saint-Germain collapsed over disagreements concerning agent commissions. Aston Villa quickly moved to capitalize on the situation and have reportedly secured the goalkeeper’s approval for a five-year contract.
Chelsea had insisted earlier in the summer that they were satisfied with their current goalkeeping options, but Martínez has emerged as a potential late opportunity for the Blues before the transfer window closes.
Aston Villa had previously told Juventus that Martínez would be available for around €10 million, but the Italian club ultimately decided against the deal after failing to reach an agreement over the goalkeeper’s valuation.
Juventus subsequently ended their pursuit of Martínez and moved for Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario instead.
Softfootball reported earlier this month that Juventus and Martínez’s representatives had held direct talks, but negotiations failed to progress after the Serie A giants considered Villa’s asking price too high.
Villa have now started exchanging documents with Parma for a deal worth around €35 million, with the goalkeeper expected to travel for his medical once the remaining formalities are completed.
With Villa now having Suzuki as another option between the posts, Martínez has been presented to Chelsea, who must now decide whether to take advantage of the late-window opportunity.
The situation is one to watch closely as Chelsea assess their options before the transfer deadline.
