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Harvey Elliott's loan from Liverpool to Aston Villa hasn't gone quite as planned
Harvey Elliott
Harvey Elliott has not played much for Aston Villa(Image: Photo by Lars Baron - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
Can Liverpool recall Harvey Elliott from Aston Villa?
Financial Transfer Trigger: A specific performance milestone in the loan deal could force Villa to purchase the midfielder for a significant sum. If Elliott plays 10 games for Villa this season, it will activate a clause in his contract making him a permanent member of the club for £35million.
Lack of Game Time: The youngster has found it difficult to secure minutes under Unai Emery, featuring in only seven matches throughout the campaign. It has been noted that the player is disappointed with the lack of opportunities to prove himself at Villa.
Recall Hurdles: Bringing the midfielder back to Anfield is not a straightforward process because Liverpool do not have a unilateral right to end the loan. Since his deal with Villa doesn't include a recall clause, all parties involved would have to agree to his return to Merseyside.
Depleted Attacking Options: Arne Slot is currently dealing with a stretched thin frontline following a serious injury to Alexander Isak. Regarding the striker's setback, Slot stated: "It's going to be a long injury," which he described as a "big, big, big disappointment."
Absence of Mohamed Salah: The squad's depth is being further tested by Mohamed Salah representing Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations. Depending on his country's progress, he could be away from Anfield until mid-January should his nation reach the final.
Registration Restrictions: If the 22-year-old does return to his parent club, he will be ineligible to move elsewhere for the rest of the season. Having played for both sides already, he will be blocked from moving in the January transfer window to join a third club within the standard European calendar.