Chelsea Academy Star Remains at Stamford Bridge as Fulham Deal Falls Through

As transfer deadline day reached its final hours, Tyrique George's proposed switch to Fulham fell apart, meaning the winger will remain at Chelsea.

Chelsea and Fulham had struck a deal for George's permanent departure valued at £22 million ($29.8 million) including an undisclosed sell-on percentage. A five-year contract had been finalized with the player earlier during the day.

However, just hours afterward, Fabrizio Romano confirmed the transfer had broken down and George will now be included in Chelsea's Champions League roster. Fulham's failure to secure an exit for Harry Wilson contributed to George's move collapsing, according to Jacob Steinberg.

The 19-year-old earned his first-team breakthrough last season and appeared in 26 matches across all tournaments during the 2024–25 season. George operated primarily on both flanks throughout most of his outings but also played as a false nine during Chelsea's UEFA Conference League campaign.

The signings of Jamie Gittens and Estêvão during the transfer window looked set to reduce George's playing time this season. The promising winger reportedly began seeking a departure at that stage, with Alejandro Garnacho's subsequent arrival from Manchester United pushing George even lower in the hierarchy.

George returned to action this weekend when he came on for the injured Liam Delap in Chelsea's 2–0 triumph over Fulham. While other clubs showed interest—particularly Roma—the Blues preferred keeping him within the Premier League.

Chelsea had reportedly been willing to consider both temporary and permanent departures for George, who recorded five assists and three goals last campaign, including a crucial equalizer against Fulham that sparked Chelsea's Champions League qualification drive.

The academy product will now compete for consistent playing opportunities with Chelsea in the coming months.