Championship outfit Rotherham United have secured the temporary signing of Arsenal goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez for the remainder of the season.
The 22-year-old has featured six times for the Gunners this season after a shortage of keepers left boss Arsene Wenger with limited options, but impressed when relied upon – including European performances during the group stages.
He will now spend the remainder of the campaign at the AESSEAL New York Stadium after falling behind Wojciech Szczesny and David Ospina in the pecking order at the Emirates stadium. The Argentinian has become manager Steve Evans’ 31st signing since last summer.
Set to make his debut for the Millers on Saturday against Sheffield Wednesday, he is expected to replace the club’s current number one Adam Collin – following a number of errors in recent weeks. Martinez spent seven months on loan with the fellow second tier side last season, who remain solidly in mid-table.
Martinez’s new side, on the other hand, are currently struggling with 40 points from 38 games, and sit just six points clear of the drop zone in 20th place. With eight games remaining, Rotherham fans will be hoping the experience of Martinez despite his age will guide their side to safety.
Evans commented on the signing, saying: "Everyone at the football club is delighted to have signed a young man like Eme given the qualities he has and the very impressive CV he has attained in his very early years as a goalkeeper."
He has now become the second arrival of the day in South Yorkshire, following the earlier arrival of Lawrie Wilson from Charlton Athletic.
Martinez becomes the second signing of the day for Rotherham following the earlier arrival of Charlton's Lawrie Wilson.