Chelsea Poised to Strike Lightning-Fast Loan Deal After Snubbing Xavi Simons
Chelsea are nearing the completion of a loan deal for Brighton & Hove Albion's attacking midfielder Facundo Buonanotte, according to several media outlets.
The Blues had been leading contenders throughout the summer to secure Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig, which was considered a crucial acquisition to strengthen Enzo Maresca's offensive lineup. However, following weeks of delays in the potential transfer, London competitors Tottenham Hotspur swooped in to finalize a €60 million (£51.8 million, $70 million) agreement on Friday after Simons expressed his desire to join the north London club.
Following the announcement of this deal, The Telegraph disclosed that Chelsea had no plans to compete with Spurs for Simons despite their previous interest, choosing not to pursue a potential 'hijack' that has become commonplace in contemporary football.
Meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano indicates that a rapid, complete agreement has been established between Chelsea and Buonanotte, who was loaned to Leicester City last season, and that the Club World Cup champions are in detailed discussions with Brighton regarding a season-long loan arrangement.
Leeds United had appeared most positioned to acquire Buonanotte and had even arranged his flight for a medical examination, according to The Athletic. Borussia Dortmund had also shown interest in securing a deal, but Brighton's priority has consistently been to maintain the 20-year-old's presence in England to help him achieve homegrown status by January.
When Chelsea expressed interest, there was only one destination the player desired.
Buonanotte transferred to Brighton in January 2023 from Rosario Central, and following five goals in 50 matches, he joined Leicester on loan as they dropped back to the Championship. He has also earned two appearances for Argentina's senior national squad.
The skilled midfielder will join the growing list of players who have transferred from Brighton to Chelsea in recent seasons, following the path of João Pedro, Moisés Caicedo, Robert Sánchez and Marc Cucurella, along with manager Graham Potter. Sky Sports calculates that approximately £287 million ($387 million) has been invested in acquiring players and personnel from the Seagulls since BlueCo's ownership began.
Additionally, Chelsea are approaching the highly anticipated acquisition of Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United, although they must prioritize financial balance before Monday's transfer window closes or face potential UEFA sanctions.