It wasn't a busy January transfer window for Everton, although the last day was full of intrigue right up to (and past) the deadline.
But the club did manage to get one move across the line, albeit one they might not have felt necessary just a few weeks ago. 19-year-old winger Tyrique George will join Everton on loan from Chelsea for the remainder of the campaign. The deal includes an option to buy this summer.
The move had been speculated about for a few days, and it was one that was likely spurred by the injury to Jack Grealish, a stress fracture in his foot that the club believes may sideline him until the end of the season.
Grealish's absence may have opened the door for George to come to Merseyside. Although he can play all along the front line, the youngster has seen most of his professional minutes from on the left, a spot that was vacated, in part, when Grealish went down.
George, who turns 20 on Wednesday, will have a chance to fight for a place in the starting lineup, more than likely opposite Iliman Ndiaye, with Tyler Dibling and Dwight McNeil serving as the England U21 international's main competition.
The signing should call into question whether or not Everton will take action on a similar option for Grealish, although that number is reportedly much higher than it will cost to retain George past June, not to mention the 10 year age cap.
The player was effusive in his praise of the club, saying that he's "really excited to be here and to enjoy this massive club" and that he "can’t wait to get started." He added that the "fans here are exceptional. I know Evertonians are really passionate. They like hard work – and that’s what I’m going to show. I want to be exciting and I want to impress them."
Manager David Moyes noted that George is a "versatile forward who can play all across the front line. I hope he will settle quickly into our squad, and the support from our fans will definitely help him feel at home. We are looking forward to working with him."
The signing has to have Evertonians buzzing about a possible attacking group of Ndiaye, George, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Thierno Barry, along with James Garner, Dibling, and Merlin Rohl in the midfield.
The future is looking bright on the Blue side of Merseyside.