Aston Villa have added to their transfer spending by snapping up goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez from Arsenal on a four-year deal.
The 28-year-old Argentine has joined for an estimated €20 million.
Martinez was Arsenal's longest-serving player, collecting an FA Cup winner's medal in the victory over Chelsea at the beginning of last month.
He joins new signings Ollie Watkins and Matty Cash at the Premier League club.
Martinez joined Arsenal a decade ago and spent time on loan at Oxford United, Sheffield Wednesday, Rotherham United, Wolves, Getafe, and Reading.
Villa boss Dean Smith said:
“We are really pleased with the signing of our new goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
“We know how highly Arsenal rated him and we watched his outstanding performances last season in a trophy-winning top side.
“We moved for Emi when we saw the opportunity, as it is rare to be able to buy a top-class goalkeeper who hasn’t yet reached their peak age and who can therefore be a key player for our Club for the long term.”
It's been a good week for the Birmingham outfit with the news that Jack Grealish has signed a long-term contract.
Villa kick off their season at home to Sheffield United on Monday September 21st.
🇦🇷 @EmiMartinezz1 🇦🇷
Worth the wait, Villans? 😍 #WelcomeEmi pic.twitter.com/0tEycKuHQu— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) September 16, 2020