Chelsea Tipped to Sign World-Class Player Sold by Arsenal for Just £17million

Posted By: THE REAL CHELSEA FANS December 24, 2024

Photo: Getty images

Chelsea have been tipped as a potential destination for Aston Villa’s star goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez if the Midlands club fail to secure Champions League qualification next season.

The Argentine World Cup winner has been a standout performer for Villa since joining from Arsenal in 2020 for just £17 million. Martinez played a crucial role in helping Unai Emery’s side finish fourth in the Premier League last season, earning Villa their first-ever Champions League qualification.

Villa began their European campaign in style, claiming three consecutive wins, including a memorable victory over Bayern Munich at Villa Park. However, their domestic and European form has dipped in recent weeks, with the team currently sitting sixth in the Premier League, three points outside the top four, and fifth in their Champions League group.

Former England striker Darren Bent has suggested that Martinez, who has firmly established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, might consider leaving Villa if they miss out on a return to Europe’s top competition. Speaking to talkSPORT, Bent named Chelsea as a possible destination for the 32-year-old shot-stopper.

Photo: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images

“I wonder if Aston Villa don’t get back in the Champions League,” Bent said. “I know he signed a new contract, but could he go? The fact is he could play for almost any team he wanted to. Chelsea could get him.”

Chelsea, currently second in the Premier League, are enjoying a resurgence under manager Enzo Maresca and appear well-placed to return to the Champions League next season. While Robert Sanchez has been Maresca’s first-choice goalkeeper, there have been consistent calls for an upgrade in the position to ensure the Blues remain competitive at the highest level.

Martinez, who was instrumental in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph, would bring elite experience and undeniable quality to Stamford Bridge. His potential move would also serve as a significant statement of intent as Chelsea aim to consolidate their return to European football’s elite.

With Villa’s Champions League hopes hanging in the balance, Chelsea fans will be watching developments closely, wondering if Martinez could be the next big addition to their squad.