According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Chelsea and Brighton & Hove Albion have agreed to allow Chelsea to sign Facundo Buonanotte on loan for the next campaign. The London club made the deal following a hectic summer in which they sought to bolster their roster in order to contend in every tournament this season.
With no option for a permanent move at the end of the contract, the 20-year-old midfielder will join on a straight season-long loan. After leading Chelsea to their Club World Cup win, Enzo Maresca is eager to add depth and quality as they continue to prepare for success.
Earlier this summer, Xavi Simons was strongly connected to Chelsea; nevertheless, the Dutch international ultimately decided to join Tottenham Hotspur. Buonanotte chose to join Chelsea despite Leeds United having discussions with Brighton and even setting up a medical for him.
Chelsea agree to a shock deal to sign Facundo Buonanotte from Brighton
Chelsea missed out on Xavi Simons, so they increased their interest in Buonanotte. The Blues were thought to be his top choice for over a month, and there were rumors that the Netherlands international exclusively desired a move to Stamford Bridge.
Before making an offer to sign Simons, Chelsea had to let go of a few players to make room in the team, but they were unable to do so quickly enough. Tottenham was able to swiftly close a €60 million (£52 million) deal after that.
After losing out on Simons, Chelsea had to start over. They are now planning to bring Buonanotte to West London on loan after deciding to pursue him as a more affordable option.
Chelsea is reportedly making every effort to recruit Fermin Lopez of Barcelona. The Blues have reportedly made two bids already, according to Spanish reports, but Barca is hesitant to approve a trade, and the player wants to battle for his spot at his childhood club.
Lopez has only appeared in 45 La Liga games this season, though, and Barca is considering a trade that would greatly reduce the impact on their already tight budget.
