Aston Villa are on an impressive winning run ahead of the January transfer window
Harvey Elliott of Aston Villa
Harvey Elliott has been linked with returning to Liverpool in the January transfer window
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Aston Villa are flying high in the Premier League as Unai Emery continues to work his magic. The club have won their last 10 matches in all competitions, leading to the Villans being discussed as possible title contenders.
A 2-1 victory over Manchester United established an impressive seven-point gap to Chelsea in fourth place, who are next on the horizon for Emery’s side. A positive result at Stamford Bridge this weekend will bolster their chances of securing Champions League football and fuel further talk of a title race.
With the January transfer window fast approaching, Villa have already been linked with several deals at a pivotal point in the campaign. Here is a closer look at some of the latest headlines surrounding Villa Park.
Harvey Elliott recall clause
Harvey Elliott was a celebrated signing when he joined Villa on loan from Liverpool on deadline day. The deal included a £35million obligation to buy after reaching a certain number of appearances, widely expected to be a formality given his performances for Liverpool and England U21 heroics in the summer.
However, the 22-year-old has been limited to just seven appearances across all competitions. He has not featured in a Premier League matchday squad since October, leading to concerns over Elliott’s immediate future.
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It has been reported that the deal between Liverpool and Villa does not include a recall clause. While it is still possible for the loan move to be cancelled, the Liverpool Echo highlights that the Reds may have already factored his sale into their financial plans.
Should the deal be cancelled, Elliott’s only option would be to return to Anfield as he featured for the Reds earlier in the season and is unable to represent a third club. This could still benefit Liverpool, with the likes of Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo and Wataru Endo all currently dealing with injuries.
Harvey Elliott of Aston Villa
Elliott has started one league game for Villa
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Emi Martinez's Man United gesture
Emei Martinez could have been lining up for Manchester United against Villa if the summer transfer window had gone differently. United ultimately opted to sign Senne Lammens on deadline day rather than the Argentine goalkeeper.
BirminghamLive reports that Martinez had been open to leaving Villa this summer. However, it all seemed a distant memory as the shot-stopper danced in front of the Holte End after Sunday’s win.
The 33-year-old wore a Villa-themed Santa hat as he savoured the latest result in the club’s winning run. As fans serenaded the goalkeeper, Martinez kissed the Villa crest on the hat before throwing it back into the crowd.
Emi Martinez celebrates with Aston Villa fans
Emi Martinez celebrated with Villa fans after the club's win over Manchester United
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The World Cup winner has mended any lingering resentment from Villa fans after considering a move away. He has featured in 13 league games so far this term, keeping four clean sheets.
Martinez’s standout moment against United saw him deny Benjamin Sesko after the striker found himself with a one-on-one chance. He will aim to produce another commanding display against Chelsea at the weekend.
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