Harvey Elliott Poised for Surprising Liverpool Departure in January After Struggling at Aston Villa
Harvey Elliott Could Be Set for Unexpected January Move After Villa Struggles
Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott, currently out of favour, may be on the verge of a surprising January transfer following a frustrating loan spell at Aston Villa.
The 22-year-old, who joined Villa on a short-term deal, was expected to secure a permanent move after 10 appearances. However, he has been sidelined by Unai Emery and now looks unlikely to feature again this season.
With Elliott not part of Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s plans, his loan deal included no recall clause. Having played just two times for Liverpool and five for Villa, he is also ineligible to represent another European club this season.
Nevertheless, interest could come from outside Europe.
The Daily Mail reports that several clubs have been made aware of Elliott’s availability during the winter transfer window. What once seemed like a season-ending situation could now see the former Under-21 European Championship Player of the Tournament linked with a move that might reinvigorate his career.
MLS Interest Emerging
Charlotte FC reportedly hold the discovery rights for the England U21 international, offering Elliott a chance to get regular game time rather than sitting on the sidelines. With coach Dean Smith, formerly of Aston Villa, and GM Zoran Krneta’s strong UK ties, the club appears well-positioned to entice him..
While Elliott would prefer to continue in the Premier League, the upcoming World Cup in the US may make the prospect of playing consistently in MLS appealing. His arrival would also generate significant attention, keeping him in the spotlight despite being overseas.
GIVEMESPORT notes that Elliott’s move is far from certain, as there are questions over whether he is willing to join MLS.
Given he has already played for both Liverpool and Villa this season, it is one of the few leagues he could join in January. Additionally, any transfer would require Liverpool and Villa to agree on terminating his loan, as no recall clause exists. As of January 2, neither club has initiated formal talks, with Liverpool expected to act only if Villa make an approach.
Charlotte could pursue a loan arrangement similar to the one that brought Wilfried Zaha from Galatasaray. Elliott’s next move will be closely watched as the winter window unfolds.
Still High Potential Despite Setbacks
Despite limited opportunities under Arne Slot at Liverpool, Elliott’s potential remains widely recognized. An attacking midfielder by trade, he can also operate on the right wing, demonstrated when he replaced Mohamed Salah to score the winning goal in a 1-0 away victory over PSG last season. While this versatility was highly valued at Anfield, it has yet to translate at Villa.
He scored Villa’s first goal of the season after four goalless matches, but contractual issues appear to have restricted his playing time. With just five appearances remaining before triggering a £35 million permanent transfer, Elliott’s talent could represent a bargain for another club willing to take a chance.