Chelsea move on from Xavi Simons with deal for Brighton outcast Facundo Buonanotte ahead of Leeds and Borussia Dortmund

Per The Athletic, Chelsea are in talks with Brighton over a surprise loan move to sign Buonanotte, having seen Simons agree to join Spurs. The Argentine had been close to a move to Leeds United, and they had booked him a flight so he could undergo a medical, but he did not board the plane. Borussia Dortmund were also reportedly interested.

Now, Chelsea are said to be close to landing the midfielder. He spent last season on loan at Leicester City, scoring six goals and laying on three assists. He is a twice-capped Argentina international.

Buonanotte has played 50 times for Brighton in total, and has registered seven goal involvements. It is, at this moment, unclear if Chelsea will include a purchase option in any deal to sign the Seagulls ace.

Chelsea face a race against time to complete a move, with the transfer window closing on Monday.