Tyrique George could leave Chelsea in January in search of regular playing time | OneFootball

Chelsea youngster Tyrique George could be one of the first players to leave Stamford Bridge when the winter transfer window opens, according to Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol.

The 19-year-old came close to joining Fulham last summer, but the transfer fell through on deadline day.

George told Chelsea that he wanted to leave in search of regular first-team football last summer, and the club decided not to stand in his way.

Fulham viewed the Chelsea teenager as an ideal replacement for Harry Wilson, who had agreed to join newly promoted Leeds United.

However, the transfer chain broke down when Wilson’s move to Leeds collapsed. That forced the Cottagers to pull the plug on their £22 million move for George at the last minute.

The Cobham graduate had also attracted interest from several other clubs, including Roma.

Chelsea shouldn’t have much trouble drumming up interest in the England youth international in January.

Since the summer transfer window closed, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has reintegrated him into the first team squad.

Described as ‘every full-back’s nightmare‘ by former Chelsea star Joe Cole, George has made five appearances across all competitions this season.

He has bagged a goal and an assist in his limited time on the pitch, and they both came in Chelsea’s 2-1 win against Lincoln City in the League Cup third round.

George’s performance spared Maresca’s blushes as he scored a belter to level the scoreline three minutes into the second half, before setting up Facundo Buonanotte for his first Chelsea goal.

Chelsea are spoiled for choice in their attacking department, so George is aware he will have limited opportunities.

The teenager is behind Alejandro Garnacho, Jamie Gittens, Pedro Neto and Estevao Willian in Maresca’s plans. Geovany Quenda is set to join the crowded line-up next summer.

George has been deployed primarily as a striker, but Chelsea recognise that he’s a natural left winger and are willing to aid his development away from Stamford Bridge.