Chelsea are considering a move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez after making contact with the Argentina international’s representatives.
The 33-year-old could be available for a transfer after Villa signed Japan international Zion Suzuki from Parma for around £30m earlier this month.
Martinez has been Villa’s first-choice goalkeeper since joining from Arsenal in 2020, but his future at the club is now uncertain following Suzuki’s arrival.
Chelsea’s interest could lead to another deal between the two clubs after a busy summer of business.
The Blues signed Morgan Rogers from Villa for a club-record £117m, while Alejandro Garnacho moved in the opposite direction on an initial loan.
Nicolas Jackson is another player who could move between the clubs, with the Chelsea striker valued at around £65m and potentially set to reunite with former manager Unai Emery at Villa.
Martinez still searching for Villa exit
Martinez was also the subject of interest from Juventus earlier this summer, but that move collapsed after concerns over a finger injury.
Juventus instead signed Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario on loan.
Chelsea’s interest in Martinez comes amid questions over Robert Sanchez’s position as their first-choice goalkeeper.
Sanchez endured a difficult opening Premier League game against Fulham, conceding at his near post to Josh King before later spilling another effort that allowed Gonzalo Garcia to score.
Chelsea eventually won 3-2 at Craven Cottage, but the performance has increased scrutiny on Sanchez.
