Chelsea have reached a verbal agreement with Aston Villa to sign Emiliano Martínez, with the Argentine goalkeeper now set to move to Stamford Bridge on a permanent transfer.
The agreement is worth £7.5 million, according to Fabrizio Romano, with the deal reached between the two clubs after Martínez gave Chelsea the green light earlier this week.
The latest development has also been reported by The Sun, which confirms that Chelsea have agreed to the £7.5m fee for the World Cup-winning goalkeeper.
Martínez Gives Chelsea the Green Light
The 33 year old goalkeeper had already made his preference clear by approving a move to Chelsea.
Chelsea had been in talks with both Martínez's representatives and Aston Villa while considering the best structure for the deal.
Those discussions have now resulted in an agreement for a permanent transfer rather than the loan option that had previously been explored.
Martínez's availability became increasingly likely after Villa signed Zion Suzuki from Parma, with the Japan international expected to take over as their first-choice goalkeeper.
The Argentine had also been linked with Juventus earlier in the summer, but that move failed to materialise.
Chelsea Strengthen Goalkeeping Options
Chelsea's decision to pursue Martínez comes after concerns over their goalkeeping department.
Robert Sánchez came under heavy criticism following Chelsea's Premier League victory over Fulham, with mistakes contributing to both goals conceded.
Martínez's arrival would give manager Xabi Alonso an experienced alternative between the posts.
The Argentine brings considerable experience at the highest level.
He helped Argentina win the 2022 FIFA World Cup and has established himself as one of the Premier League's most experienced goalkeepers during his time at Aston Villa.
He also played a key role in Villa's successful Europa League campaign last season.
From Villa Park to Stamford Bridge
Martínez joined Aston Villa from Arsenal in 2020 and quickly established himself as an important figure at the club.
Now, after six years at Villa Park, he is on the verge of beginning a new chapter in west London.
With the £7.5 million agreement now in place, the remaining formalities should pave the way for Martínez to complete his Chelsea transfer.
Chelsea have their goalkeeper. Emiliano Martínez is heading to Stamford Bridge.