Image Credits: Imago Images
Harvey Elliott’s future has been uncertain since Aston Villa manager Unai Emery opted against making his loan move from Liverpool permanent. The 21-year-old is just three appearances away from triggering a £35million transfer clause after joining Villa on loan last summer.
Elliott had been sidelined despite training with the first team, with Emery confirming in October that the club would not pursue a permanent deal. However, an injury crisis has forced a rethink, with Boubacar Kamara ruled out for the season and John McGinn and Youri Tielemans sidelined for months.
As a result, Elliott has featured in Villa’s last two matches after not playing since October 2. He completed 90 minutes in last week’s Europa League win over Red Bull Salzburg and came on as a second-half substitute in Sunday’s 1-0 home defeat to Brentford.
Unai Emery said: “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.
“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 players with more experience. The players we have, I am so happy.”
According to the Daily Mail’s Tom Collomosse, Aston Villa and Liverpool are set to hold talks over Elliott’s loan arrangement. Collomosse posted on X: “Harvey Elliott: Villa and #lfc set for talks over his loan arrangement, which can happen after the deadline has passed.
“Current situation doesn’t suit either the player or the clubs. Possible the appearance target is raised, or obligation becomes option 1/2/”
Read more: Crawley Town officially confirm Liverpool player returns to club
Crystal Palace make “monstrous” offer for Liverpool target
Aston Villa make final decision on Harvey Elliott loan
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.