Chelsea odds-on favourites to sign Emiliano Martinez after source's reveal

Chelsea are now the odds-on favourites to sign Emi Martinez from Aston Villa this transfer window in what could be a sensational late deal.

The Argentina international has been heavily linked away from Villa Park for months, with numerous sides showing interest in the goalkeeper.

On Tuesday, Football Insider exclusively revealed that Chelsea are exploring a deal to sign Martinez before the transfer window closes.

The board want to provide Xabi Alonso with a top-class shot-stopper for the new campaign, with the 33-year-old emerging on their radar.

Now, one UK bookmaker has slashed the odds of a move to Stamford Bridge down to 4/7, making Chelsea the clear favourites to complete the signing.

Martinez did not play a part in Villa’s 4-0 defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion last weekend due to an apparent lack of fitness.

Emi Martinez could be a transformative signing for Chelsea

Chelsea’s transfer business this summer has been excellent, with the squad clearly more well-rounded this season.

However, despite many eye-catching additions, the lack of a new goalkeeper has been a concern.

Robert Sanchez has been far too inconsistent at the Blues for years, and made further mistakes during the 3-2 victory against Fulham on Monday.

If Chelsea want to become the best team in England once more, they simply need a top goalkeeper, and Martinez could be that player.

At Villa, the Argentina international has established himself as one of the best players in his position in the world, and his qualities were once again on show in the 2026 World Cup.

Nevertheless, it remains to be seen if Chelsea can get a deal over the line for the keeper before the transfer window closes on 1 September.

Who else is in the race for Martinez?

Alongside Chelsea, there are plenty of other clubs who are in the race for Martinez’s signature.

A surprise move to Tottenham is currently priced at 3/1, while a move to any Italian club is at 5/1 odds.

Manchester United are considered outsiders for Martinez at 16/1, and a move to any Spanish club is priced at 14/1.

However, with just days left of the transfer window, clubs are running out of time to strike a deal with the goalkeeper and Villa this summer.