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Leeds United are close to completing the loan signing of Facundo Buonanotte from Brighton & Hove Albion.
Leeds and Brighton sources, speaking on the condition of anonymity to protect relationships, expect the proposed deal to be concluded, which would see the attacking midfielder’s Chelsea loan ended early to allow his move to Elland Road.
Buonanotte, 21, had been a key target for Daniel Farke’s side last August and had a flight booked for him to travel to West Yorkshire to complete a deal. Leeds had been confident a deal was in place with club and player, with a medical booked for Buonanotte’s arrival, before Chelsea swooped in to turn his head.
The Argentina international opted for Stamford Bridge, but has found game time limited, and has featured in only 45 minutes of Premier League football this season. He has made eight appearances in all competitions for Chelsea, providing one goal and two assists.
Buonanotte is a left-footed attacker who likes to cut in from the right flank, which is a profile Leeds felt they ended the summer window without.
Harry Wilson was another player in that mould they pursued on deadline day, but could not get over the line. Buonanotte now strengthens United’s options in the final third and allows Farke to pivot from his five-man defence where necessary.
Buonanotte’s Brighton contract expires in June 2028 and the deal with Leeds is a loan until the end of this season.
