Premier League legend says Aston Villa goalkeeper ‘should be Chelsea’s main transfer target’

Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez should be the top transfer target for Chelsea according to a legendary Premier League winner.

Former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit recently called on the Blues to make a move to sign Martínez, who has been one of Villa’s key figures since his move to Villa Park in 2020.

The Frenchman sees him as the right man between the sticks for Chelsea. Their current goalkeepers, Robert Sánchez and Filip Jörgensen, have faced criticism regarding their form and consistency.

During the interview with EscapistMagazine.com, the French World Cup winner said: “Emiliano Martínez would be an inspiration in the Chelsea dressing room. I have criticised his behaviour in the past, but he knows what it takes to win titles; he has that experience.

“He can inspire other players, and he has all the qualities needed of a top goalkeeper. He would be a very good signing for Chelsea, and 32 isn’t old for a goalkeeper. I think he’d link well with Enzo Maresca and the players already at the club. One fear I have is for Aston Villa; I am worried about them with top players leaving the club. I’m not sure where it will leave them next season.”

Petit’s comment might be justified on the Argentine shot-stopper but Enzo Maresca seems to be satisfied with Sanchez’s performance.

Chelsea’s unlikely link to Martínez

The former Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper is 27, significantly younger than Martínez.

What’s more, Chelsea’s transfer policy is seemingly to avoid signing players over 30. That reportedly led to the departure of Mauricio Pochettino, Enzo Maresca’s predecessor. Pochettino had a disagreement with the management regarding signing senior players in the squad.

The London side was linked to the two-time FIFA Best Goalkeeper award winner earlier this summer along with Manchester United. Then, most recently, one Saudi Pro League side also showed their interest.

Martínez himself has been reportedly considering a switch elsewhere despite the club’s preference to keep him in the squad.

Emiliano Martinez’s current state of play

Martínez is currently one of the highest earners at Villa. His weekly wage is reported at £150,000 per week and his contract runs up to June 2029.

His name has been all over the Aston Villa transfer news during the summer. Selling one of the club’s top earners would help Aston Villa to comply with UEFA squad cost ratio rules.

However, the Red Devils’ interest seems to have cooled down following the rejection of a loan offer. They are not willing to match his price tag, which could be up to £40 million. Villa prefer a permanent move so that they can balance their books.

Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly interested but would probably have to sell Gianluigi Donnarumma first and the goalkeeper market is slow.

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