Everton have confirmed the signing of winger Tyrique George from Chelsea in a deal worth an initial £18m, with a further £6m in potential add-ons. The 20-year-old England Under-21 international has signed a four-year contract at Goodison Park, becoming the club's third summer signing.
Loan spell leads to permanent move
George spent the second half of last season on loan at Everton, making one start and 11 appearances overall. Despite not registering a goal or assist, he impressed with his cameo performances and training efforts, convincing manager David Moyes to pursue a permanent deal. The agreement was reached over the weekend, with personal terms quickly signed off.
Upon signing, George said: "I'm so happy to sign for Everton. I loved my time here on loan last season, so as soon as I knew it was a possibility to return, that's always what I wanted. This is a massive club. I've seen for myself how passionate the fans are about Everton, how much it means to them – and I want to put on good performances, score goals, and create goals to make them happy."
Impact on debut and beyond
George arrived on Merseyside in February as cover for the injured Jack Grealish. His debut saw him come off the bench at Fulham to inspire a comeback win, earning him a start in the following game – a home defeat to Bournemouth. Although opportunities were limited, he created several good chances for teammates in key games against West Ham United, Crystal Palace, and Sunderland. In the season finale at Tottenham Hotspur, his introduction shifted the match's dynamic, and only a fine save from Antonin Kinsky denied him a stunning late equaliser.
Part of a summer rebuild
George joins Merlin Rohl, whose loan from Freiburg became permanent for £18m after Everton avoided relegation, and Hayden Hackney, who arrived from Middlesbrough for £16.5m (potentially rising to £25m). Moyes commented: "We're pleased to bring Tyrique back on a permanent basis. He made a positive impression during his loan spell with us last season and settled into the group quickly. He's still young and there's plenty of development ahead of him, but we believe he's got the attitude and the ability to keep improving."
George added: "There is a lot more to come from me and with the manager, the coaches and my team-mates, I know I'm in a great place to show it. Everton is an environment that demands hard work from everyone, and I will give everything. To be in for the start of pre-season is something I was keen on. Now I'm really excited to get going again."
