Report: Chelsea Ready to Submit £45m Bid for World Cup Winning Stopper | OneFootball

Chelsea Eye Emiliano Martinez Amid Goalkeeping Shake-Up

Maresca’s search for a No.1 leads to World Cup winner

Chelsea have been offered the opportunity to sign Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez in a deal believed to be worth around £45 million, according to Simon Mullock in The Mirror, as the Midlands club looks to ease concerns over the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). The Blues, now under the guidance of new boss Enzo Maresca, are in the market for a reliable No.1 after inconsistent seasons from Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen.

Martinez, a standout performer in Argentina’s World Cup triumph in 2022, has spent six successful seasons at Villa Park, becoming one of the Premier League’s most dependable goalkeepers. His performances haven’t gone unnoticed, with Chelsea now primed to act while other suitors hesitate.

Martinez admiration grows at Stamford Bridge

Maresca isn’t the only figure at Chelsea who sees value in the 32-year-old. Assistant manager Willy Caballero is known to be a significant admirer of his fellow Argentine, and his backing could prove influential as Chelsea weigh up their options between the posts.

Although Manchester United have also been linked with Martinez, their ability to move for a new goalkeeper remains restricted. United boss Ruben Amorim is focusing on other areas of the squad, and any potential arrival would be contingent on finding a buyer for Andre Onana, valued at £35 million.

That financial standstill at Old Trafford gives Chelsea a potential free run at securing Martinez — a development that could accelerate in the coming weeks.

Villa face balancing act amid PSR challenges

Villa’s reluctance to lose emerging talents such as Morgan Rogers means they are likely to cash in on more established assets. Martinez, with a strong international profile and substantial Premier League experience, fits the mould of a player who can command a high fee.

“Villa are resigned to being forced to cash in on the World Cup-winning Argentine in a bid to ease fears over failing the Premier League’s PSR test and are aware that the Blues are in the market for a new No 1.”

Should Martinez leave, Villa have already identified possible replacements. Royal Antwerp’s 22-year-old Senne Lammens is among the names being monitored. However, competition is strong, with Manchester United also keeping tabs on the Belgian talent.

Keeper carousel sparks summer market activity

The summer transfer window appears set for a major reshuffle among Premier League goalkeepers. Newcastle United are close to finalising a move for Burnley’s James Trafford, despite the Clarets placing a £40 million valuation on the England U21 keeper.

Last summer, Newcastle saw a £17 million bid for Trafford rejected. Their failure to increase that offer by just £5 million at the time now looks like a costly hesitation, especially given Burnley’s obligation to send 20% of any profit from the deal to Manchester City.

Meanwhile, Leeds United are watching developments closely. Their interest in Newcastle’s Nick Pope suggests they are planning their own move for a Premier League-proven goalkeeper to strengthen their survival prospects.

“Newcastle are closing in on Burnley’s James Trafford despite seeing the Clarets put a £40million valuation on the England Under-21 international’s head.”