Leeds United still have several targets on their radar this month, although some potential signings are already moving elsewhere.

A recent report from TEAMtalk claimed Leeds are interested in Chelsea winger Tyrique George, with the England U21 international struggling for minutes in west London. Now, a curious new development has emerged.

McFarlane continues George’s exclusion as Leeds target remains frozen out

The 19-year-old has not been included in a Chelsea Premier League matchday squad since Sunderland’s visit to Stamford Bridge in late October.

Under Enzo Maresca, George was deemed not ready for Premier League action. However, when Maresca departed and Calum McFarlane stepped in as interim head coach — a figure known for working closely with Chelsea’s young prospects — many expected the teenager to at least return to the squad for Sunday’s trip to Manchester City.

Instead, McFarlane surprisingly maintained George’s omission and, more strangely, opted to name an additional goalkeeper on the bench. Max Merrick was included alongside Gabriel Slonina, leaving the Leeds-linked winger out once again.

This decision strongly suggests — at least in our view — that George’s continued absence is being driven by Chelsea’s hierarchy rather than the coaching staff. It raises the possibility that the club are deliberately protecting the player from injury, mindful that a sale could be on the table this month.

Fulham’s £22m agreement sets benchmark, but Leeds could pay less

Leeds United came close to signing Harry Wilson in September after Fulham had agreed a £22m deadline-day deal with Chelsea for George, a move that ultimately collapsed.

That fee established a clear valuation heading into the winter window. However, with the academy graduate now entering the final 18 months of his contract, Chelsea’s leverage is diminishing.

By the summer, George will have just one year remaining on his deal, further weakening Chelsea’s negotiating position. As a result, the Blues may be willing to cash in now — even if it means accepting a fee below the £22m figure previously agreed with Fulham.