“Important” Chelsea youngster loved by Enzo Maresca keen to leave Stamford Bridge in January amid interest from Europe

Chelsea's Facundo Buonanotte, Jamie Gittens and Tyrique George. (Reuters/Lee Smith)

Chelsea’s youth-first strategy continues to define their identity this season.

Enzo Maresca is overseeing the youngest squad in the Premier League, packed with emerging talents recruited from across the globe.

Some are already flourishing: Estêvão is rapidly becoming a fan favourite, while Josh Acheampong looks more assured with every appearance.

Others are making quieter but steady progress, with players like Facundo Buonanotte shining in cup competitions and Alejandro Garnacho finally beginning to find rhythm after a slow start.

However, not every youngster is benefitting equally. With minutes hard to come by in an increasingly competitive squad, frustration is beginning to build for those on the fringes — and one highly rated prospect is now considering his future away from Stamford Bridge.

Tyrique George could be on the move when the January transfer window opens, despite being viewed internally as a key part of Chelsea’s long-term vision.

The 19-year-old winger was previously labelled “important” to the club’s future by Enzo Maresca, but his lack of first-team exposure this season has prompted serious reflection.

George has featured in just four Premier League matches so far, and, according to Caught Offside, sources close to the situation suggest both player and representatives are pushing for a permanent exit to fast-track his development.

With Chelsea’s wide areas overcrowded and continued investment in senior attacking options, the pathway to regular minutes looks increasingly blocked.

Interest is strong across England, where Leeds United, Everton, Fulham, Southampton and Crystal Palace are all keeping close tabs. Fulham, in particular, remain keen after coming close to signing George in the summer, when a proposed £22m deal fell apart late on.

That figure is now expected to serve as Chelsea’s starting point for negotiations.

There is also growing attention from abroad, with RB Leipzig and Roma monitoring the situation closely. Crucially, George’s camp are clear on their stance: a loan will not suffice. Any move must be permanent and come with guarantees of meaningful first-team involvement.

If Chelsea are unwilling or unable to offer that clarity, George’s January departure now looks increasingly likely.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider.

Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.