Chelsea set to sign 20-year-old Argentine playmaker after missing out on Simons

Chelsea are reportedly nearing a loan deal for Brighton midfielder Facundo Buonanotte, a move that comes after they were beaten to the signing of Xavi Simons by Tottenham.

According to The Athletic, the Argentine international had previously been a target for both Leeds United and Borussia Dortmund, with Leeds even booking a flight for him that he ultimately did not board.

Buonanotte, who is a player admired by Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, spent last season on loan at Leicester City, where he recorded six goals and three assists.

The 20-year-old has made 50 appearances for Brighton, registering seven goal involvements in total.

While it remains unclear if the loan agreement will include a permanent purchase option, the move is expected to provide Chelsea with an excellent option for squad rotation in the number 10 role.

Meanwhile, the Blues are edging closer to completing the signing of another Argentine attacker, Alejandro Garnacho, from Manchester United.

Garnacho has remained resolute in his desire to move to Stamford Bridge, even turning down a transfer to Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich. The 21-year-old was frozen out by United boss Ruben Amorim, and is desperate to re-start his career.