Chelsea midfielder to join Leeds United on loan

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January 15, 2026 20:05 GMT (UK), by Sri Aswin

Brighton & Hove Albion are set to recall midfielder Facundo Bounanotte from his season-long loan spell at Chelsea, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Blues made the surprise decision to loan Bounanotte last summer. He was used sparingly by manager Enzo Maresca, who has since been dismissed.

New head coach Liam Rosenior started him against Charlton Athletic in the FA Cup third round, but the Blues have now agreed to terminate his deal.

Bounanotte will return to the Seagulls in the next 24 hours before securing another straight-loan move, this time to Leeds United for the campaign.

The Whites have distanced themselves from the relegation battle in recent weeks, but they are still keen on adding more firepower in the final third.

Bounanotte has been identified as an ideal addition to the ranks. He has been assured sufficient playing time by manager Daniel Farke this term.

Brighton believe the Whites would provide the right platform for his development compared to regularly sitting on the bench at Chelsea.