Sophia
Chelsea’s summer transfer strategy has taken an unexpected turn, with reports indicating a swift move for Brighton & Hove Albion’s Facundo Buonanotte on loan. This development comes after the Blues opted against a potential ‘hijack’ for long-term target Xavi Simons, who is now reportedly headed to Tottenham Hotspur.
Simons Saga Takes a Twist: Spurs Swoop In
For weeks, Chelsea had been widely considered the frontrunners to secure Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig. The attacking midfielder was seen as a crucial addition to bolster Enzo Maresca’s squad. However, after prolonged negotiations, London rivals Tottenham Hotspur reportedly sealed a €60 million (£51.8 million, $70 million) deal on Friday, with Simons expressing a preference for a move to North London.
Interestingly, The Telegraph revealed that Chelsea had no intention of entering a bidding war for Simons, despite their initial interest. This decision marks a departure from the common transfer ‘hijack’ tactics prevalent in modern football.
Buonanotte Emerges as Chelsea’s New Target
Following the Simons development, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano reported that Chelsea has now reached a swift, full agreement with Facundo Buonanotte. The Club World Cup winners are reportedly in advanced talks with Brighton for a season-long loan move for the Argentine midfielder.
Buonanotte, 20, spent last season on loan at Leicester City. While Leeds United had seemingly been in pole position to sign him, even arranging a flight for his medical, and Borussia Dortmund also expressed interest, Brighton’s preference was always to keep him in England to facilitate his homegrown status by January. Once Chelsea entered the picture, it appears the player’s destination was clear.
![Romano] Xavi Simons has opened doors to Chelsea move after direct contacts with his camp!](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,w_1024,h_576,x_0,y_91/v1756385541/images/voltaxMediaLibrary/mmsport/si/01k3rbrykqsx8sq876s.jpg)
A Familiar Path from Brighton to Stamford Bridge
Buonanotte joined Brighton in January 2023 from Rosario Central, making 50 appearances and scoring five goals before his loan spell at Leicester. He also boasts two caps for the Argentina national team.
His potential arrival continues a significant trend of players (and staff) moving from Brighton to Chelsea. Recent transfers include João Pedro, Moisés Caicedo, Robert Sánchez, and Marc Cucurella, along with former manager Graham Potter. Sky Sports estimates that the BlueCo ownership era has seen an astonishing £287 million ($387 million) spent on acquiring talent from the Seagulls.
Balancing the Books Ahead of Deadline Day
While the focus shifts to Buonanotte, Chelsea is also reportedly closing in on the highly anticipated signing of Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United. However, with Monday’s transfer deadline looming, the club must prioritize balancing their books to avoid potential penalties from UEFA.
This unexpected pivot in Chelsea’s transfer strategy highlights the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of the summer window. While missing out on Simons may be a blow, the rapid pursuit of Buonanotte suggests a clear alternative plan is in motion as the Blues look to finalize their squad for the upcoming season.
