Chelsea are looking to strengthen their squad in the ongoing summer transfer window.
A key focus is upgrading their goalkeeping options, as Chelsea continues its pursuit of a dependable first-choice keeper.
Enzo Maresca was left unconvinced by last season’s options, pushing the West London club back into the market.
While Mike Maignan has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, the Blues are now also linked with a shot-stopper with proven Premier League experience – Emiliano Martinez.
Chelsea are linked with Emiliano Martinez
The latest report from The Mirror is that Chelsea are considering a move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Martinez this summer.
The report claims that Maresca’s side have been offered the chance to sign the Argentine for around £45m.
The World Cup winner is currently under contract at Villa Park until 2029, however, Martinez has already said goodbye to Villa fans, with the player set to leave the club this summer.
Villa are also ready to sell Martinez as the club aims to raise significant funds from sales to avoid troubles with PSR. This allows Chelsea to sign an ‘incredible‘ goalkeeper.
Why Chelsea should sign Emiliano Martinez over Mike Maignan
Statistically, Martínez and Maignan had a relatively similar season.
Over the past season, Martínez conceded 1.27 goals per 90 minutes compared to Maignan’s 1.12, while the Frenchman also held a slightly better save percentage, 70.6% to Martínez’s 69.0%.
However, Martínez’s positive PSxG+/- (+0.8) shows he’s saving more than expected, unlike Maignan’s -1.2, which indicates underperformance.
Stat Emiliano Martinez Mike Maignan
Goals Conceded per 90 1.27 1.12
Save Percentage 69.0% 70.6%
PSxG +/- +0.8 -1.2
Performance vs Expectation Overperforming Underperforming
Emi Martinez vs Mike Maignan 24/25 stats via Fbref
While Maignan may come at a relatively lower fee, Martínez offers valuable English top-flight experience and brings a World Cup-winning pedigree with the kind of big-game mentality Chelsea have lacked in recent years.
He also has an advocate within the club in assistant manager Willy Caballero, who worked closely with him in the Argentina setup, further strengthening his case as a strong fit for Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea finished last season with the youngest team in Premier League history, and adding a leadership figure like Martínez could provide much-needed experience and balance to the squad.