ARSENAL goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has joined Reading FC on loan for the rest of the season.

The 26-year-old Argentine let the cat out of the bag last night when a video appearing to show him travelling to Madejski Stadium along with the words ‘New house!’ was posted on Instagram by his management company.

Martinez completed a medical and finalised personal terms this morning before joining his new teammates at Royals’ Hogwood Park training ground.

He becomes Jose Gomes’ second loan signing in less than 24 hours following the capture of Norwich City striker, Nelson Oliveira, and fourth in January on top of Liverpool’s Ovie Ejaria and Chelsea’s Lewis Baker.

Martinez’s arrival is almost certain to see out-of-favour Vito Mannone leave Reading this month, possibly back to Italy.

Gomes said: “I am delighted we have been able to attract a goalkeeper of Emi’s undoubted ability to Reading.

“He will provide excellent competition for the goalkeeper’s position and adds quality to our group. I look forward to working with him on the training ground for the first time later today.”

Martinez, who takes over squad number 26, will compete with current first-choice keeper Anssi Jaakkola and back-up Sam Walker for the gloves.

It is thought Gomes is not convinced by Jaakkola’s kicking and distribution and sees Martinez as better suited to his style of play.


The Portuguese boss had been linked with Manchester United keeper Joel Pereira, 22, earlier in the transfer window before turning his attention to Martinez.

It is thought Martinez asked Arsenal boss Unai Emery for permission to leave this window in order to gain regular football.

He is third-choice with the Gunners behind Petr Cech and Brend Leno, has made only six league appearances for the North Londoners, having joined from Independiente in 2010.

He has been loaned to Oxford United, Sheffield Wednesday, Rotherham United, Wolves and Getafe in the past.

However, it is believed he remains part of the Premier League club’s long-term plans and they are unlikely to agree to a long-term deal.

Martinez was in goal for Arsenal during their famous 7-5 League Cup victory at Reading in October 2012.

Royals chef executive Nigel Howe added: “Emiliano is another talented player who has agreed to spend time away from one of the top teams in the Premier League in search of valuable first-team football.

“He has Championship experience and he is up for the fight. I look forward to him challenging for the goalkeeper’s jersey as a Royal.”