Leeds United News can provide the latest information regarding the Whites’ interest in Brighton playmaker Facundo Buonanotte.
Leeds United need a few more players to finish their summer transfer window signings, despite the 49ers bringing in nine new additions already so far.
Daniel Farke wants a hybrid playmaker who can play as a No.10 or winger and we have suggested Facundo Buonanotte of Brighton as an option for Leeds before.
Farke said: “Wingers with a kind of X-factor, some very quick wingers who are also good in one against one. Perhaps, a bit [lacking] is this No.10 type of winger.
“Who could interpret the No.10 role slightly different to what we’ve done in pre-season once we’ve played with Ao Tanaka or Sean Longstaff. Perhaps this No.10 type of winger would be a good solution for our squad.”
Leicester City v Manchester United - Premier League
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Facundo Buonanotte has serious interest from Leeds United ahead of the transfer deadline
Emi Buendia and Buonanotte have been mentioned and both players fit the bill in terms of Farke’s demands, having featured regularly as wide creative players or as out-and-out No.10s more centrally in their careers.
Leeds had Buonanotte interest over a year ago and the Argentine playmaker headed to Leicester where he perhaps did not feature as much as he would have liked during their relegation.
In recent weeks, Buonanotte has emerged as a more serious target again. Carlos Tevez is reminded of Messi with Buonanotte. The 20-year-old has played the vast majority of his minutes as either a right winger or central attacking midfielder.
Team Appearances Goals Assists
Rosario Central 34 4 2
Brighton and Hove Albion 50 5 2
Leicester City 35 6 3
Argentina 2 0 0
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Per Transfermarkt, at least 81 games have come in those roles. In recent days, Leeds United News has learnt that he is one of the frontrunners on their transfer shortlist for the position.
Sources have confirmed Leeds have two top targets for the role, but with other contingency plans in case neither materialise. Buonanotte is one of the two, due to his versatility in the two roles.
Leeds United News transfer correspondent Graeme Bailey has provided the latest information. He said: “Buonanotte is on Leeds’ radar they have liked him all summer.
“Leeds still want this creative playmaker or number 10 profile before the window closes.
“Buonanotte has been told by Brighton he can leave this summer. He has already seen a few deals fall through, too.
“Leeds are absolutely still at the table. It’s certainly one to keep an eye on as we approach the deadline.”
Crucially, he ticks the exact boxes which Farke detailed during the press conference yesterday.
Facundo Buonanotte in action for Leicester.
Photo by Jon Hobley | MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Facundo Buonanotte’s contract situation at Brighton and Leeds’ interest could mean a loan
Buonanotte was born in Argentina and is of Italian descent, holding dual citizenship. Importantly, he would not count towards a 25-man squad if Leeds were to sign him.
It’s been clear all summer that Buonanotte is not in Brighton’s plans after his return from Leicester, and it’s also been reported that Borussia Dortmund have been knocked back for Buonanotte.
It could allow Leeds to swoop in, be that permanently or on loan. The young Argentine is still under contract with Brighton until 2028, meaning they are in no rush to sell him, too.
Leeds could explore some sort of loan or loan-to-buy type of deal, if Brighton are willing to entertain that type of transfer.