'Done deal' - Chelsea confirm deadline transfer after Leeds United flight cancelled and West Ham interest
Chelsea have completed a fresh loan signing after seeing off competition from their Premier League rivals
Chelsea have completed a season-long loan deal for Facundo Buonanotte after reaching an agreement with Premier League rivals Brighton and Hove Albion.
The Blues have signed the two-cap Argentina international to bolster their attacking depth as they prepare to compete on four fronts. Enzo Maresca’s side have qualified for the Champions League and may also be facing a higher risking of fatigue this season after going all the way in the Club World Cup during the summer.
“I’m very happy to join Chelsea,” said Buonanotte. “It’s a great opportunity for me and I’m just looking to add as much to the squad as possible, help the team and help the staff.”
The 20-year-old came through the academy at Rosario Central before joining Brighton in January 2023. He has scored five goals in 50 appearances for the Seagulls since his move from South America.
He spent last season on loan with Leicester City, scoring six times in 35 games as the Foxes were relegated from the Premier League. There is no option or obligation to buy in the deal.
Facundo Buonanotte future hint from Brighton boss
While there are questions over why Buonanotte has moved to a club like Chelsea rather than the likes of West Ham or Leeds United, Seagulls boss Fabian Hurzeler’s comments indicate the player does have a future at the Amex Stadium.
He said: “This is a great opportunity for Facundo to play regular Premier League and Champions League football this season and further his development.“Facundo has great potential and we see his long-term future with us here, and we will be monitoring his progress with Chelsea this season.”
Chelsea sign Facundo Buonanotte amid West Ham and Leeds interest
Chelsea have beaten Leeds and London rivals West Ham to the loan deal for Buonanotte. It was reported by Sussex World that West Ham were keen to take the player on loan, in a move that would have bolstered their attacking options.
The Hammers had a bleak outlook heading into the weekend but Lucas Paqueta’s commitment to the club and a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest has lifted the mood slightly at the London Stadium.
Meanwhile, Leeds came even closer to a move with the Elland Road club even booking a flight for the player on Thursday. However, Yorkshire Evening Post chief football writer Graham Smyth revealed: “Leeds United close to a deal for Facundo Buonanotte. Initial plan was to travel today but timing/logistics didn't work and the flight was cancelled.”
Chelsea was certainly a more attractive prospect for Buonanotte with the Blues in the Champions League but he will have to fight harder for his spot in Enzo Maresca’s squad. The Blues have made the move after not making a bid for Xavi Simons, who has now joined Tottenham.