Liverpool: Elliott’s two January paths outlined amid double complication as Reds weigh shock move

 

 

Reports suggest that Harvey Elliott’s situation is being complicated by two key obstacles as Liverpool and Aston Villa explore possible next steps.

Elliott joined Aston Villa from Liverpool on a season-long loan last summer, with an option to buy set at around £35 million. The move was initially seen as a major win for Villa, who secured the highly rated midfielder after his standout performances for England’s U21s at the European Championships.

The 22-year-old had played a limited role at Liverpool the previous season under Arne Slot, who favoured alternative options. Despite that, Elliott’s quality made him a potential contender for one of the signings of the season.

However, the loan spell has not gone to plan. Elliott has featured just three times in the Premier League so far and has often been left out of matchday squads altogether. As a result, a January return to Anfield is now being discussed, though both clubs must first reach an agreement to end the loan early.

According to The Athletic, Elliott effectively has only two options in January: remain at Villa or return to Liverpool. Having already played for two clubs this season, he is ineligible to represent a third. Villa boss Unai Emery reportedly feels other players in Elliott’s position are better suited to his tactical demands, which explains the midfielder’s lack of minutes.

Adding further complexity, the loan deal does not contain a recall clause. This means Liverpool cannot simply bring Elliott back at will, and Villa would need to be compensated financially to terminate the agreement ahead of schedule.

Meanwhile, Liverpool could also be forced into the January market for attacking reinforcements. Mohamed Salah’s long-term future remains unclear, while Alexander Isak is expected to miss several months after suffering a leg fracture.

CaughtOffside reports that the Reds are weighing up short-term solutions, including a possible loan move for Paris Saint-Germain striker Gonçalo Ramos. While Ivan Toney and Dušan Vlahović are admired by the club, both are viewed as longer-term targets rather than immediate fixes.

The report adds that a surprise six-month loan for Ramos is emerging as an intriguing option to cover Isak’s absence.