Everton knew they couldn't kick back and relax in the final stages of the January transfer window, and after Jack Grealish's season-ending injury, plans have been accelerated.
While the Toffees have been buoyed by the return of Iliman Ndiaye from a triumphant AFCON campaign with Senegal, effective options are in short supply up top, with more creativity needed either side of the prolific Thierno Barry in the middle.
Technical director Angus Kinnear will be pleased to report that he is making a breakthrough in a bid to sign Tyrique George from Chelsea.
The 19-year-old is slated to sign for the Merseysiders on loan before the end of the window, with a purchase option woven in.
Everton lining up late deal for George alternative
George is an interesting prospect, hailed as "a player of immense potential" by Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior. However, he is young and raw, and entrusting him with a starring role may not have the desired effect for Moyes and co.
Tyrique-George
A loan move with an option for purchase underscores the long-term lens that has been applied here. Everton will hit the jackpot by landing the prospect, for sure, but they may also need a player who can step straight into Grealish's boots.
Someone with Champions League experience, perhaps?
According to Sports Boom, FK Bodø/Glimt winger Jens Petter Hauge has been earmarked as the man for the job, with Everton bursting into a late-window race for the Norwegian.
Jens-Petter-Hauge-norway
Hauge, 26, is also on Crystal Palace's radar, and the Eagles are deemed frontrunners as things stand, but Everton will hope that their bid for Aston Villa's Evann Guessand could see them pull off a stunning hijack.
Why Hauge would be a better signing than George
Hauge has been in stunning form for his outfit this season, thriving in Eliteserien and the Champions League. Bodø/Glimt's historic victory over Manchester City was conducted with him at the centre, and his ability to dribble, defend and dominate in the final third could provide Everton with the presence they need to compensate for Grealish's absence over the coming months.
An "exceptional" talent, as has been said by Tottenham manager Thomas Frank, Hauge's explosive speed, skilful dribbling and potency in the final third have been utilised consistently this season, and he's shown on Europe's biggest stage that he's capable of throwing down with the heaviest hitters out there.
While George is undoubtedly one for the future, Hauge has the capacity to play a talismanic role from the off in an Everton shirt.
Jens Petter Hauge: Stats in 2025/26
Stats (* per 90)
Matches (starts)
Goals + Assists
Touches*
Shots (on target)*
Big chances missed
Accurate passes*
Chances created*
Dribbles*
Ball recoveries*
Tackles*
Duels won*
Data via Sofascore
The Chelsea youngster has scored three goals from 11 senior appearances this season, but it would be foolish to expect him to match Grealish's quality and presence in the Premier League over the business months of the campaign.
However, with Hauge taking the first-choice role, both could grow into their skin in the Premier League, George as an understudy and Hauge eased by the knowledge that he has a strong up-and-comer shadowing him.
Jens Petter Hauge
One thing's for certain: Everton cannot afford to opt against replacing Grealish this month. George will be a fantastic addition, but in Hauge, Everton might just land themselves a talent capable of thriving in Grealish's vacant position.
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