Everton price limit clear for permanent Tyrique George move amid Chelsea discussions
The Toffees loaned the Chelsea star in the winter window, and have the option to trigger a buy option in his contract.
However, similar to Jack Grealish's loan stay from Manchester City, the Blues are not willing to pay the full price of the buy option.
Everton are reportedly keen on making George's stay permanent, as the included buy option is said to be an eight-figure fee.
It's highly likely that Chelsea included a buy option worth £20million or more for the winger, as the Toffees want to negotiate a lower deal with Xabi Alonso's side.
Everton should not spend more than £10m on Tyrique George
Joe Thomas has revealed that there is a willingness at Hill Dickinson to keep George beyond the 2025-26 season.
However, it's suggested that whatever the buy option is for the 20-year-old, the Toffees do not wish to pay it.
A deal to sign George permanently will be influenced by Chelsea's willingness to negotiate on his fee, with Everton keen for them to lower his price.
With that said, Dan Friedkin doesn't have any reason to spend more than £10m on the Englishman, especially considering he will not be a regular starter next term.
Everton may need another £20m to bring Grealish back to Merseyside, and if he does return, there's no chance that George will be starting.
David Moyes will still need back-up, though, as £10m could be the sweet spot for both Everton and Chelsea in discussions which are expected to take place soon.
Everton have contingency plans in place if George doesn't stay
There was once a lot of doubt surrounding George potentially staying at Everton for another season, but that's now a possibility if an agreement is met.
If it's not, the Toffees won't sweat, as they have done their scouting on Watford's Othmane Maamma, among other wingers.
Esmir Bajraktarevic is another target, along with Edon Zhegrova of Juventus, both of whom can play on either flank.
It's important to note that barring Grealish, wingers are not a priority this summer, but the futures of Dwight McNeill and George could speed up approaches for some of these targets.