Aston Villa's World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez might switch allegiance to Chelsea if his current club fails to secure Champions League football next season, former Villa striker Darren Bent suggests. Despite signing a new five-year contract, the Argentine goalkeeper's outstanding performances at both club and international levels have caught the attention of potential suitors.
Stellar record at Villa Park
Martinez, who made his move from Arsenal to Villa in 2020, has built an impressive record of 60 clean sheets in 182 appearances. The 32-year-old shot-stopper played a vital role in Villa's historic achievement last season, helping the club secure their Champions League qualification with a fourth-place Premier League finish.
His individual accolades include the 2022 FIFA World Cup victory with Argentina, two Copa América titles, and becoming the only goalkeeper to win FIFA's The Best Men's Goalkeeper award twice (2022 and 2024).
Champions League dreams and Chelsea's situation
Villa's current form has seen them slip to sixth place in the Premier League, putting their Champions League aspirations at risk. This decline could influence Martinez's future, despite his recent contract extension. Bent shared his insights on talkSPORT, stating,
"I wonder if they don't get the Champions League... I know he signed a new contract, but could he go? He could play for almost any team he wanted to. Chelsea could get him."
Chelsea's goalkeeping department shows room for improvement, with first-choice keeper Robert Sanchez displaying inconsistent form this season. The Blues' goalkeeper roster includes Filip Jorgensen for cup competitions, Marcus Bettinelli and Lucas Bergstrom as backup options, while Djordje Petrovic continues his development at Strasbourg.
Under Enzo Maresca's guidance, Chelsea holds second place in the Premier League, positioning themselves for a return to Champions League football next season.
Former Premier League goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen ranks Martinez among the league's finest shot-stoppers, with his recent performance against Nottingham Forest reinforcing this reputation. Villa's rise from relegation candidates to Champions League contenders aligned with Martinez's arrival at the club.
While Chelsea hasn't made any official approach, their need for a reliable goalkeeper and likely Champions League participation could present an appealing opportunity for the Argentine international. Martinez's potential departure would significantly impact Villa's future plans whilst potentially strengthening Chelsea's squad for their upcoming campaigns.