Emiliano Martínez is very close to beginning a new adventure in the Premier League. The World Cup winner with Argentina has practically completed his move from Aston Villa to Chelsea after the two clubs reached an agreement for his transfer.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Dibu had already given the green light to the Blues’ project, and an agreement between the clubs was reached on Thursday. The deal will be a permanent transfer worth around £7.5 million.

The Argentine is expected to sign a two-year contract with an option for a third season, meaning that once the final steps of the deal are completed, Stamford Bridge will have a new candidate to defend its goal.

Chelsea Bet on Dibu’s Experience

The arrival of Martínez represents a different type of move for a Chelsea side that has primarily signed young players during recent transfer windows.

At 33 years old, Dibu brings immediate experience and knows the Premier League extremely well. He joined Aston Villa from Arsenal in 2020 and eventually became one of the most important figures at the Birmingham club.

His trophy cabinet with Argentina also speaks for itself.

Martínez was one of the standout performers at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, especially during the knockout rounds and the final against France, and he has since established himself as one of the most recognized goalkeepers in international soccer.

Now, he is set for a new challenge in London.

New Competition in Chelsea’s Goal

His arrival would also immediately create an interesting battle between the posts.

Robert Sánchez started the season as the first-choice goalkeeper, but his performance against Fulham once again raised questions. Mike Penders, meanwhile, is also among the options available to Xabi Alonso’s team and started in the Carabao Cup against Luton Town.

Dibu is not arriving simply to add depth to the squad.

Given his experience, career and the timing of Chelsea’s decision to accelerate the deal, the Argentine will have more than enough credentials to immediately compete for the starting job.

Dibu Brings His Aston Villa Chapter to a Close

The move also brings an end to a long chapter between Martínez and Aston Villa.

The Argentine arrived at Villa Park in 2020 looking for the opportunity to finally establish himself as a regular starter after spending several years with Arsenal. He found stability in Birmingham and went on to make more than 250 appearances for the club.

His situation changed this summer with the arrival of Zion Suzuki from Parma, with Villa choosing the Japanese goalkeeper as their new option between the posts. That move ultimately opened the door for the Argentine’s departure.

Only the final steps remain before the transfer can become official.

After six years in Birmingham, Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez is ready to change shirts without leaving England.

His next destination points directly to Stamford Bridge and a Chelsea side that is adding experience, personality and a World Cup winner to compete for its starting goalkeeper position.

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