Chelsea have agreed a £7.5m deal to sign Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, with his expected arrival likely to put Robert Sánchez’s position under pressure. The move reflects manager Xabi Alonso’s concern over Chelsea’s goalkeeping after Sánchez’s poor performance against Fulham, while the club also faces a possible late bid from Manchester City for midfielder Enzo Fernández.

Martínez, who turns 34 next week, is expected to sign for two years with an option for a third after falling out of favour at Villa following Zion Suzuki’s arrival. Sánchez may seek a move if displaced as first choice, while 21-year-old Mike Penders could leave on loan; meanwhile, Chelsea say no deal is close for Fernández despite City’s interest, having previously rejected an unofficial £120m deadline and insisting any sale must meet their terms.