‘Almost inevitable’ – Insider reveals likely next step for Harvey Elliott following Villa setback

 

 

Harvey Elliott heads into 2026 with his immediate future up in the air, as his loan switch from Liverpool to Aston Villa has clearly failed to deliver what was expected.

The 22-year-old has spent the last three months on the sidelines after slipping down the pecking order under Unai Emery. With Elliott having featured in only five of the required ten matches needed to trigger a permanent transfer, it now looks unavoidable that Villa will not pursue a long-term deal.

The Athletic recently revealed that MLS side Charlotte FC have shown interest, although sources close to the player have since played down the idea of a short-term move to the United States. Even so, former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown believes a spell in Major League Soccer is increasingly likely.

Speaking to Football Insider, Brown suggested Elliott’s next step is becoming clear. He stressed that regular football is essential for the midfielder and that those opportunities have failed to materialise at Villa, despite early optimism when he arrived. Brown also described the situation as unfortunate, pointing out that Elliott’s ability could have put him on the fringes of England contention if he were playing consistently.

While Elliott previously struggled for regular minutes at Liverpool, he at least remained involved. Now, however, he has barely featured at all. According to Brown, a temporary move to MLS may be the only realistic solution at present, allowing Elliott to play freely for six months, rebuild momentum, and reassess his options in the summer.

A short-term MLS loan appears to suit all parties. Continuing to sit unused at Villa benefits no one, and Liverpool’s willingness to let him leave without a recall clause suggests his long-term prospects at Anfield are limited, despite some calls for another opportunity.

At this stage, Elliott simply needs a club that values his qualities and offers him meaningful game-time. A move to the United States could either become a permanent chapter or serve as a springboard back to the Premier League or European football.

MLS has emerged as a practical option due to FIFA regulations restricting players from representing more than two clubs in a single season. Because the league operates on a calendar-year schedule — at least until 2027 — it avoids those limitations.

Both Liverpool and Aston Villa are believed to be discussing the possibility of ending the loan early, though doing so would require Villa to pay a termination fee. Any exit would therefore depend on both clubs reaching a mutually acceptable compromise that clears the way for Elliott’s departure.

Although a return to Anfield would be welcomed by some supporters, it appears highly improbable given that Elliott does not feature in Arne Slot’s plans. The most realistic and beneficial outcome now is a move where he can finally play regularly and escape his current stagnation.