Chelsea are closing in on a loan deal to sign Brighton midfielder Facundo Buonanotte, according to reports.

Leeds United were on the verge of signing the 20-year-old, who was due to undergo a medical this week.

However, Buonanotte did not board his flight to West Yorkshire on Thursday and Chelsea have now made their move.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are now finalising a loan agreement with Brighton for Buonanotte, who has already accepted a move to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have been in the market to sign an attacking midfielder before Monday’s transfer deadline and have turned to Buonanotte after seeing Xavi Simons reach an agreement to join Tottenham.

Buonanotte spent last season on loan with Leicester City, scoring six goals and registering three assists in 35 appearances.

Brighton signed Buonanotte from Argentine side Rosario Central for an initial £5.3m fee in January 2023.

The midfielder has made two appearances for Argentina’s national team.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are also set to announce their £40m deal to sign Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United.

The 21-year-old, who has completed his medical with Chelsea, will sign a seven-year contract.

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