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Harvey Elliott joined Aston Villa on a season-long loan from Liverpool last summer, with the Reds hopeful of securing £35million through an option-to-buy agreement.
However, the England youth international has racked up just seven appearances in all competitions and has not featured in the Premier League since late September.
Villa would have been required to pay the full £35million if Elliott made 10 appearances, but the club decided two months ago not to exercise that option. Since then, both sides have been in discussions to reach a resolution.
“We have the issue with Harvey Elliott. Again, I am respecting all I can because he is a very good guy, a professional and respectful guy,” Villa boss Emery explained.
“The situation he has with us is something I must take a decision on, but trying not to damage the player as less as possible. He deserves the best for him.
“After it, if he is leaving, we can maybe try to use the position he is [in] to let us work something [in the market]. Until now, we only signed Alysson because we believe in his potential.
“Of course, we are opening the door for as well some players with more experience. But with the players we have, how they are performing and getting their level, I am so happy.
Emery added: “The problem we have with Harvey is that he is on loan, and in case he plays matches we must buy him. We decided two months ago that we are not convinced to sign him, spending the money we would need to.
“This is the only issue. He is training every day with very good behaviour and to help us in training sessions. This is not something good for us and him, but this is football and sometimes we must make decisions.”
Aston Villa have recalled Leon Bailey from his loan at AS Roma, according to The Independent, adding to Harvey Elliott’s struggles for regular minutes since his summer move. The decision comes days after Donyel Malen was allowed to join Roma for the rest of the season.
Bailey’s return, following negotiations due to no termination clause, will further limit Elliott’s opportunities just as Malen’s departure had opened a potential spot. Bailey is set to be available for Aston Villa’s clash with Newcastle at St. James’ Park on Sunday afternoon.
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