He has joined on loan until the end of the season after his late summer U-turn
Isaac Johnson Leeds United reporter
16:09, 15 Jan 2026Updated 16:29, 15 Jan 2026
Leeds United signing Facundo Buonanotte(Image: )
Leeds United have formally announced that Facundo Buonanotte has arrived on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion until the end of the season.
The 21-year-old becomes Daniel Farke‘s first signing of the January transfer window, with Brighton terminating his loan at Chelsea. Buonanotte – will wear the number 40 – was close to joining Leeds in the summer before Chelsea stole him from United’s grasp.
The attacking playmaker – who has two caps for Argentina – pushed for the move to Elland Road himself, having earned just 45 minutes of Premier League action at Chelsea.
Overall, he has played 518 minutes given his three outings in the Champions League and four appearances in domestic cup competitions – including the FA Cup, meaning he is cup tied.
A club statement confirming his arrival from Chelsea said: “Leeds United are delighted to announce the arrival of Facundo Buonanotte on a loan deal until the end of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.
“His versatility across the forward line has seen the left footed 21-year-old play in central areas behind the striker, on the right or left wing, dropping deeper as needed, and also taking set-pieces.
“Everyone at Leeds United would like to welcome Facundo to the club and we look forward to seeing him in action for Daniel Farke’s side.”
Farke has meanwhile left the door open for more signings this month. Speaking in today’s press conference, he said: “I don’t expect that six new players will come in and six players will go out.
“There is always space for one, two, perhaps three positions. But I would also rule out that we do more.”
Leeds are leaning more towards attackers this window, hence the signing of Buonanotte. Due to the club’s PSR situation, with spending limits currently maxed out, the Whites are more likely to utilise the loan market.
This could change if a player leaves for a fee. Jack Harrison is due to depart for Fiorentina but this move looks as though it will comprise a loan with an option to buy.
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