Chelsea transfer news: BlueCo 'closing' on shock loan deal for another Brighton & Hove Albion, will he end up at Strasbourg?

Chelsea are reportedly attempting to finalise the shock signing of Brighton & Hove Albion playmaker Facundo Buonanotte.

The Blues are currently attempting to facilitate the outgoings of Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson in order for them to sign at least Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho.

Enzo Maresca has already acknowledged that the Argentina international is at Chelsea's facilities ahead of a likely transfer, but Chelsea still want more competition for their number 10 role.

Xavi Simons is now on his way to Tottenham Hotspur, while it remains to be seen whether Chelsea can negotiate a deal for Barcelona's Fermin Lopez.

Nevertheless, as per The Athletic, Chelsea have again been in discussions with Brighton regarding the surprise acquisition of Buonanotte, initially on loan.

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Chelsea switch attention from Enciso

Owners BlueCo had been attempting to sign Julio Enciso from the Seagulls with the view of him joining Strasbourg and potentially switching to Chelsea next season.

That deal ultimately broke down over issues with the medical, and Buonanotte - who is of a similar profile to Enciso - is seemingly viewed as a suitable alternative.

As per the report, the 20-year-old had been due to sign for Leeds United before he failed to travel to Yorkshire to finalise a move on Thursday.

Buonanotte is now expected to pen a deal with Chelsea, even though he is effectively surplus to requirements at the Amex Stadium after a loan stint with Leicester City in 2024-25.

Across both clubs, nine goals and four assists have been contributed from 71 appearances, while he is also a two-cap Argentina international.

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Would Buonanotte play for Chelsea or Strasbourg?

The report is currently indicating that there are plans for Buonanotte to remain with Chelsea's first-team squad, at least for the first half of the season.

That could change if Fermin departs Barcelona for West London and game time becomes limited.

However, as per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Buonanotte is not being viewed as someone who could instead sign for fellow BlueCo-owned club Strasbourg.