Everton have secured the services of Chelsea winger Tyrique George on loan until the end of the season, in a move aimed at mitigating the impact of Jack Grealish's injury. The deal, confirmed late on transfer deadline day, includes an option for Everton to sign the 19-year-old on a permanent basis in the summer.
Grealish, who was on loan from Manchester City, suffered a stress fracture in his foot, potentially ruling him out for the remainder of the season. The injury forced Everton manager David Moyes to seek a swift replacement, with George emerging as the primary target.
George, a versatile attacker who primarily plays on the left wing, has made 37 senior appearances for Chelsea, including 11 this season. He has also featured in the Champions League, scoring in a match against Ajax. While he has found minutes limited at Stamford Bridge, he is highly rated by the club, with some describing him as a player of "immense potential".
Moyes expressed his satisfaction with the signing, stating, "We are pleased to have signed Tyrique on loan from Chelsea for the remainder of the season". George's versatility is expected to provide Moyes with tactical flexibility, as he can also operate in a more central attacking role.
The pursuit of George intensified in the final days of the transfer window, with Everton exploring other options, including Fulham's Harry Wilson. However, they ultimately decided to pursue a deal for George, an England youth international who has been with Chelsea since the age of eight.
According to reports, George was close to joining Fulham last summer in a deal worth £22 million, but the transfer fell through. While the exact value of Everton's option to buy is undisclosed, it is considered to be significant.
The loan deal is a "try-before-you-buy" arrangement for Everton, giving them the opportunity to assess George's fit within the squad before committing to a permanent transfer. He has already gained experience in the Premier League and in European competitions with Chelsea.
Fabrizio Romano, a transfer expert, confirmed the deal, stating, "Tyrique George to Everton, here we go! Deal in place after official bid sent yesterday as exclusively revealed. Loan deal until June, full salary covered by #EFC and buy option clause not mandatory. Medical booked".
George's arrival is expected to bolster Everton's attacking options and provide much-needed cover for the injured Grealish. With his ability to play across the front line, he offers Moyes flexibility and a potentially long-term solution on the left wing.
