Sport Villa sign goalkeeper Martinez from Arsenal

The 28-year-old Argentine, who made 23 appearances last season and played in the Gunners’ FA Cup final win over Chelsea, has signed a four-year deal.

Villa manager Dean Smith said Martinez will be a “key player for our club for the long term”.

“It is rare to be able to buy a top-class goalkeeper who hasn’t yet reached their peak age,” he added.

“We know how highly Arsenal rated him and we watched his outstanding performances last season in a trophy-winning, top side.”

Martinez leaves Arsenal 10 years after joining as a youth team player in 2010.

Gunners manager Mikel Arteta decided Bernd Leno would be his first choice this season and the German started Arsenal’s Premier League opener on Saturday – a 3-0 victory at Fulham.

Real Life. Real News. Real Voices

Help us tell more of the stories that matter

Become a founding member

He is Villa’s third recruit of the summer after striker Ollie Watkins signed from Brentford for a club record fee and right-back Matty Cash arrived from Nottingham Forest.

Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Subscribe to the newsletter news

We hate SPAM and promise to keep your email address safe