Chelsea are exploring a major solution to their goalkeeping concerns.
The club has opened discussions with Emiliano Martínez’s representatives about a potential move for the Aston Villa and Argentina goalkeeper, as questions continue to surround Robert Sánchez.
The 33-year-old has emerged as a target while Chelsea assess whether Sánchez can remain their first-choice goalkeeper.
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Why Martínez is available
Villa could be prepared to listen to offers after bringing in Japan international Zion Suzuki from Parma for £30 million earlier this month.
That signing potentially opens the door for Martínez to leave—and Chelsea are now among the clubs monitoring his situation.
A transfer would also continue the increasingly busy trading relationship between Chelsea and Villa.
Another Chelsea-Villa deal?
The two clubs have completed several significant transactions in recent seasons.
Chelsea paid a club-record £117 million for Morgan Rogers, while Alejandro Garnacho joined Villa on an initial loan arrangement.
Villa are also interested in Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, who is valued at around £65 million. A permanent move would reunite Jackson with former Chelsea boss Unai Emery.
The clubs have also been involved in deals involving Ian Maatsen and Omari Kellyman, adding another layer to the potential Martínez negotiations.
Juventus already tried
Chelsea are not the only club to have pursued Martínez.
Juventus attempted to bring him to Turin earlier in the transfer window, but the move fell apart amid concerns over a finger injury. The Italian club subsequently secured Guglielmo Vicario from Tottenham on loan.
Martínez’s availability, therefore, could attract further interest if Villa decide to sell.
Sánchez’s difficult start
Chelsea’s interest comes after Sánchez endured a difficult opening Premier League fixture against Fulham.
The goalkeeper was beaten at his near post by Josh King and later failed to hold another effort, creating the opportunity for Gonzalo García to score.
Chelsea ultimately survived the scare and won 3-2 at Craven Cottage, but Sánchez’s display has renewed questions about his position.
Alonso backs his goalkeeper
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has publicly played down concerns over Sánchez.
Ahead of Thursday’s Carabao Cup meeting with Luton Town, Alonso said his discussions with the squad had focused primarily on the team’s overall performance rather than isolating Sánchez’s individual errors.
He stressed that Chelsea remain a developing side and still have areas that need improvement.
Meanwhile, Mike Penders could be given an opportunity after returning from a successful loan spell at Strasbourg.
Asked whether Penders could feature against Luton, Alonso pointed to his inclusion in the squad as evidence that the goalkeeper is in contention.
A decision looming
The contrast is telling.
Alonso is publicly supporting Sánchez, while Chelsea are simultaneously examining alternatives.
Martínez would bring experience, international pedigree and a proven record at the highest level. Whether Chelsea turn exploratory talks into a formal bid could depend on Villa’s willingness to sell and the club’s assessment of Sánchez over the coming weeks.
For now, one thing is clear: Chelsea are no longer treating their goalkeeping situation as a problem they can simply ignore.