Chelsea Eye Emiliano Martinez As Goalkeeping Concerns Mount

Chelsea are exploring a possible move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez after making contact with the Argentina international’s representatives, as concerns continue over Robert Sanchez’s performances.

The 33-year-old is understood to be available for a potential transfer after Villa signed Japan international goalkeeper Zion Suzuki from Parma for about £30 million earlier this month.

Martinez’s potential arrival would provide another opportunity for Chelsea and Villa to do business after a series of recent deals between the two clubs.

Chelsea signed Morgan Rogers from Villa for a club-record £117 million, while Alejandro Garnacho moved in the opposite direction on an initial loan deal.

Villa could also pursue Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, who is valued at around £65 million and could reunite with former manager Unai Emery.

The clubs have maintained a close trading relationship, having also been involved in a deal described as a “PSR swap”, which saw defender Ian Maatsen join Villa and Omari Kellyman, now at Strasbourg, move to Chelsea.

Martinez was previously targeted by Juventus during the current transfer window, but the proposed move collapsed over concerns surrounding a finger injury. Juventus subsequently signed Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario on loan.

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Chelsea’s interest in Martinez comes as Sanchez faces renewed scrutiny following his display in the Premier League opener against Fulham.

Sanchez was beaten at his near post by Josh King before spilling another effort into a dangerous area, allowing Gonzalo Garcia to score. Chelsea nevertheless held on for a 3-2 victory at Craven Cottage.

Manager Xavi Alonso initially defended the Spanish goalkeeper and was asked again about the situation ahead of Thursday’s Carabao Cup meeting with Luton Town at Stamford Bridge.

“We have talked more about the team thing, about what we did well and what we have to do better,” Alonso said, stressing that the discussions had focused more on team development and adjustments.

Chelsea’s second-choice goalkeeper Mike Penders, who returned from a successful loan spell at Strasbourg during the summer, could be handed an opportunity against Luton.

Alonso confirmed that Penders is in the squad but said the final team selection would be communicated to the players before the match.