Chelsea’s long-standing reputation for developing quality young talent has come to the fore once again, with Tyrique George emerging as a potential departure from the club in January.
The much-maligned 19-year-old appears to be growing frustrated with his lack of first-team opportunities at Stamford Bridge and is now eyeing a permanent move to accelerate his development, say sources close to the agent industry. CaughtOffside.
George has been a standout player at Chelsea’s youth level, gaining fame for his pace, his direction, and his ability to work well on either side, although his preference is always on the left wing.
Tyrique George has struggled for playing time at Chelsea
Despite regularly taking part in training with the senior team and playing with match day teams, consistent minutes under Enzo Maresca have been hard to come by.
The youngster has only made four Premier League appearances this season.
With Chelsea boasting a full attacking department and continuing to invest heavily in established wide players, George and his representatives believe the time is right to seek a new challenge.
Interest in the youth is widespread. In England, Leeds United, Everton, Fulham, Southampton, and Crystal Palace are all monitoring his situation, seeing him as a quality player who can develop into a Premier League regular.
Fulham, in particular, have long held a high regard for George and came close to securing his signature on deadline day in the summer.
A proposed £22 million deal fell through late in the talks, but that valuation is now seen as the bench Chelsea will work from when talks resume in January.
Interest is growing in the Blues midfielder
Elsewhere, RB Leipzig and Roma are also firmly in the picture. Leipzig’s interest is believed to be driven by their record of nurturing young attacking talent, giving George a clear path to a development-oriented environment that has benefited the likes of Christopher Nkunku and Dani Olmo.
Roma, on the other hand, see him as a long-term project that can succeed in Serie A under a more organized tactical system, sources suggest that the Italian club is looking at creative financial solutions to make the deal work.
Sadly, George’s camp has drawn a clear line: they want a permanent transfer, not another loan, and any move must include guarantees with a regular start and a defined role in the first team setup.
With many clubs preparing to leave and Chelsea unlikely to stand in his way if their prices are met, George’s exit in January looks very likely.
Chelsea are making contact with the midfielder wanted by Man United and Newcastle
