Chelsea Legend William Gallas Warns Club Over £50m Move for Player 'Not fit' for Club

Former Chelsea defender William Gallas has urged his old club to steer clear of signing Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez this summer — despite the World Cup winner being offered to the Blues.

Chelsea have been looking for a new goalkeeper to boost their squad, especially after missing out on AC Milan’s Mike Maignan earlier in the window. Although Maignan was open to a move to Stamford Bridge, Milan made it clear their captain was not for sale.

That setback led to fresh rumours linking Chelsea with Martinez, with reports suggesting the Argentine shot-stopper could be available for around £45 million as Villa look to manage their finances. But while Martinez’s name has been thrown into the mix, Chelsea are reportedly not interested in making a formal offer — a stance that Gallas believes is the right call.

Speaking to Prime Casino, Gallas said: “He’s a good goalkeeper. He was important for Argentina in the World Cup and has done well for Villa, but I have serious doubts about whether he would be a good fit at Chelsea.”

Gallas, who played for the Blues between 2001 and 2006, went on to question Martinez’s personality and behaviour, suggesting his fiery antics wouldn’t match Chelsea’s expectations.

“When I think about his antics, I just don’t think he would be a positive addition,” Gallas added. “People talk about his passion, but I’m not sure that’s a good fit for the club. Chelsea need a keeper who does the job quietly and professionally — not someone who brings too much attention for the wrong reasons.”

The 32-year-old Martinez has become known for his over-the-top celebrations and emotional reactions during games, especially after his penalty shootout heroics with Argentina. But for Gallas, that kind of behaviour doesn’t suit a club like Chelsea.

“I’m sorry, but name one top goalkeeper who has done what Martinez does — grabbing his crotch, dancing after saves. You won’t find one,” Gallas said. “Goalkeepers can be crazy — I played with Lehmann, he was crazy. But even Lehmann wouldn’t act like Martinez.”

While Chelsea may not be in the market for Martinez, they’ve been far from quiet in this summer’s transfer window. The club has already signed striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town and attacker Joao Pedro from Brighton. Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens is also said to be close to finalising a move to west London.

For now, it seems Chelsea will continue to focus on adding more attacking depth to their squad under new manager Enzo Maresca — but the search for a long-term No.1 continues, with Martinez unlikely to be the answer.