Leeds United is making significant progress towards securing a loan deal for Facundo Buonanotte, with the club optimistic that an agreement will be finalized before the conclusion of the winter transfer window.
The Argentine international is anticipated to move from Brighton & Hove Albion, following the early termination of his current loan with Chelsea.
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Buonanotte has been on Leeds’ radar since last summer, when he was marked as a key attacking target.
A potential transfer was nearly completed in August, with travel arrangements and a medical scheduled, but Chelsea stepped in to secure him instead.
The 21-year-old chose Stamford Bridge at that time but has faced limited playing time.
This season, he has played only 45 minutes in the Premier League and made eight appearances across all competitions.
In that time, Buonanotte has tallied one goal and two assists, with his latest appearance occurring in the FA Cup.
Chelsea and Brighton agree that a change in scenery would be beneficial for his growth.
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Leeds is now in a position to provide him with a more significant role for the latter half of the season.
Manager Daniel Farke has expressed interest in bringing in a left-footed attacker capable of playing on the right and cutting inside, addressing a gap they identified earlier in the season.
Buonanotte fits this profile and is seen as a player who can break down defenses in tightly contested matches.
His addition would enhance Leeds’ options in the attacking third and allow for tactical flexibility as needed.
Leeds also considered Harry Wilson for a late summer transfer but weren’t able to finalize an agreement before the deadline.
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Buonanotte’s ability to play across various attacking positions will be a crucial asset as Leeds strives for survival.
The Argentine remains contracted with Brighton until June 2028, highlighting their long-term faith in his potential.
The proposed move to Elland Road would be a straightforward loan until the season’s end, giving Buonanotte the opportunity to regroup after a challenging start to the campaign.