Everton are close to reaching an agreement with Chelsea for the permanent signing of Nigeria-eligible forward Tyrique George as the club continues to reshape its squad ahead of the new Premier League season.
The Merseyside club is advancing talks with Chelsea over a deal for the 19-year-old attacker after his loan spell at Goodison Park during the second half of last season.
According to journalist Nizaar Kinsella, negotiations between both clubs are progressing, with Everton hopeful of finalising the transfer during the summer window.
George joined Everton on loan in January 2026 after finding first-team opportunities difficult to secure at Chelsea despite breaking into the senior squad during the 2024/25 campaign.
Although the youngster was unable to score in 11 Premier League appearances for Everton, the club’s coaching staff remain convinced he has the qualities to develop into a key player in the coming years.
Manager David Moyes is believed to be a strong admirer of the versatile forward and sees him as a long-term investment rather than a player to be judged solely on his short loan spell.
Nigeria still an international option
A permanent move would hand George the chance to continue his development with more consistent first-team football, something that proved difficult to achieve at Chelsea because of intense competition for attacking places.
Everton are also looking to strengthen their attacking options as they prepare for another Premier League campaign, with George viewed as a player capable of offering versatility across the front line while improving with regular playing time.
The transfer could also have international implications. While George has represented England at youth level, he remains eligible to play for Nigeria because he has not featured in a competitive senior match for England.
Regular appearances in the Premier League could enhance his prospects of attracting attention from the Nigerian national team if he chooses to commit his international future to the Super Eagles.
An agreement between Everton and Chelsea has yet to be officially announced, but talks are understood to be moving in a positive direction as both clubs work towards completing the deal.