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Exclusive: £33m player now being considered by Leeds after Chelsea hijack Facundo Buonanotte deal

Facundo Buonanotte has agreed terms on a loan transfer to Chelsea, TBR Football understands, leaving Leeds United furious and switching their attention to Aston Villa’s Emiliano Buendia.

Brighton forward Buonanotte had looked set to seal a loan move to Elland Road and seriously strengthen Daniel Farke’s attacking options.

However, TBR Football understand that Chelsea have swooped to offer Brighton the same deal, convincing Buonanotte to choose a switch to Stamford Bridge.

Facundo Buonanotte during Manchester United vs Leicester City in the Premier League

Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images

After seemingly losing out on Xavi Simons, Chelsea could have landed a replacement and they are also set to seal the permanent signing of Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United.

Leeds now looking at Emiliano Buendia after losing out on Facundo Buonanotte

TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey reports that Leeds had agreed terms with Brighton for the loan signing of Facundo Buonanotte – the same deal Chelsea are now doing – and were gearing up to give the 20-year-old a medical.

But with Chelsea making a late move, Bailey says: “Leeds are furious with the news that Buonanotte is now heading to Stamford Bridge and they are now having to look at other options with Aston Villa’s Emi Buendia now a strong option for them.

Emiliano Buendia whilst playing for Aston Villa against Brentford.

Photo by Vince Mignott/MB Media/Getty Images

“The Buonanotte decision has shocked Leeds, they were really excited that they had found their new no 10 option – which they have been working on. But they received a call to tell them it is off and they are not happy at all.

The blow continues Leeds’ frustrating transfer window, with Lukas Nmecha, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor signed to boost their forward line. However, Farke has insisted he wants more options in attack.

Facundo Buonanotte makes feelings clear on Chelsea’s late move, ‘quick to decide’

Bailey added: “Buonanotte, a player Chelsea have long coveted, is being signed instead of Xavi Simons, and will join fellow countryman Alejandro Garnacho in Chelsea’s attack for next season – with both due to complete their moves in the next 24-hours.

Games Goals Assists

Brighton 50 5 2

Leicester 35 6 3

Facundo Buonanotte record in England. (Source: Transfermarkt.)

“Brighton insist that Buonanotte will be returning to the South Coast next season and no options is included.

“Buonanotte was quick to make the decision to move to Chelsea. Yes there is no clause for him in theory to become permanent but the chance to play for Enzo Maresca in the Champions League is a huge opportunity.”

After missing out on Simons, Buonanotte’s Premier League experience with Leicester last season will be a boost for Maresca’s rotation options up front.

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