Buonanotte completes loan move to Leeds after early Chelsea exit

Leeds United have announced the loan signing of Facundo Buonanotte from Brighton for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.

Buonanotte was initially loaned to Chelsea for the whole campaign, but the Seagulls’ deal with the Blues was cut short before the midfielder completed his move to Elland Road.

The 21-year-old has made just eight appearances for Chelsea this season across the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and EFL Cup, with seven of those coming as starts.

Buonanotte, who has represented Argentina twice at senior level, has scored once this season and registered two assists, most recently providing the assist for Tosin Adarabioyo’s goal against Charlton in the third round of the FA Cup.

#LUFC is delighted to announce the arrival of Facundo Buonanotte on a loan deal until the end of the 2025/26 campaign

— Leeds United (@LUFC) January 15, 2026

He will be looking to challenge the likes of Brenden Aaronson and Noah Okafor for a starting position in Daniel Farke’s team.

Leeds are currently eight points clear of the relegation zone in 16th as they prepare to host Fulham on Saturday.

Leeds lost their last league game to Newcastle United (3-4), though at Elland Road they are unbeaten in four matches (W2 D2); they last enjoyed a longer run in the same top-flight season in December 2021 under Marcelo Bielsa (W2 D3).