What Chelsea internally think about Facundo Buonanotte as details emerge of agreed loan deal

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Chelsea are about to make one of the surprise signings of the summer transfer window.

We doubt that any supporter would have predicted that Brighton’s Facundo Buonanotte, 20, would be on his way to Stamford Bridge. However, it’s widely reported that the young attacking midfielder could soon join the Blues.

Even though Chelsea fans have criticised the imminent Buonanotte signing, the Argentine playmaker will arrive with Premier League experience from spells at the Amex Stadium and Leicester City.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano claims via X that Chelsea have now agreed a deal to sign Buonanotte on loan from Brighton.

• READ MORE: How Manchester United have reacted to Alejandro Garnacho fee as Chelsea move agreed

Chelsea are internally very excited about Facundo Buonanotte

According to Romano, those inside Chelsea within the recruitment team have huge faith in the potential and quality of Buonanotte.

The left-footed playmaker, who usually plays as a No.10 or right-winger, has already shown glimpses of his individual talent in the Premier League. Even though he was relegated during his loan with Leicester last season, he stood out as one of their best players.

Romano said via his YouTube channel: “Let’s explain the Buonanotte story. Chelsea sign the player on loan from Brighton. They will cover the salary for the season. Chelsea will formally not have a buy option clause because Brighton didn’t want to include any buy option…

“Chelsea decided to go for him because internally in the recruitment team they really believe in the potential of this boy. Brighton immediately said a loan can be fine but no buy option clause. Loan fee agreed, salary agreed, but no buy option.

“Chelsea, according to my information, will have matching rights. What does it mean? If in summer 2026 a club arrives and agrees a fee with Brighton, Chelsea will receive a call and can say we match that fee.”

After weeks of transfer speculation, Dutch attacking midfielder Xavi Simons ended up leaving RB Leipzig to sign as a Tottenham player. Ultimately, Chelsea opted against a late move for Simons yesterday before his transfer was announced.

The alternative for Enzo Maresca’s side looks like being Buonanotte.

We expect to see the 20-year-old provide cover in the Blues squad for the attacking positions. Therefore, it’s a bit frustrating that he’s not signed yet because Cole Palmer is unavailable against Fulham through injury for Saturday afternoon’s Premier League match.

What Roberto De Zerbi once predicted about Facundo Buonanotte

Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi, who previously coached Buonanotte at Brighton, once made an exciting prediction about the South American youngster.

Speaking in March 2023, De Zerbi tipped Buonanotte to develop into a key player for the Seagulls. He said via The Argus: “I think he played a good game. I’m sure he can become a great player for us for the future.”

It’s been an interesting journey for the attacker so far as he prepares to leave yet again on loan, but it’s worth noting that Brighton are refusing to sell him.