Chelsea seal loan move for Facundo Buonanotte after Leeds deal collapses
Chelsea have agreed a deal with Brighton to sign Facundo Buonanotte on a season-long loan. The 19-year-old attacking midfielder had been on the verge of joining Leeds United, but their move fell apart, paving the way for the Blues to swoop in.
The agreement is for a straight loan with no option to buy, meaning Buonanotte will return to the south coast at the end of the campaign. Chelsea see the Argentine as an exciting addition who can add depth and creativity to Mauricio Pochettino’s squad during a busy season.
Buonanotte, who joined Brighton from Rosario Central in January 2023, has already shown glimpses of his potential in the Premier League. Highly rated in Argentina, he has been tipped as one of the country’s brightest young talents and made his senior debut for the national team last year.
For Chelsea, the deal represents a low-risk opportunity to bolster their attacking options without committing to a permanent fee. It also offers Buonanotte valuable experience at one of Europe’s biggest clubs before returning to Brighton, where he remains part of the long-term project.
Leeds, meanwhile, are left frustrated after their planned move broke down late in negotiations, allowing Chelsea to step in and secure the teenager’s services.
