Since Harvey Elliott’s arrival at Aston Villa, the young midfielder has struggled to truly find his feet.
With game time limited and his impact minimal, talk of an early return to Liverpool is intensifying far sooner than expected.
Transfer News Blitz writer Luke Maddison breaks down Elliott’s short spell at Villa Park and explores what the future may hold for the 22-year-old.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Premier League transfer news: Bayern Munich eye March Guehi amid Premier League interest
THE STORY SO FAR
Harvey Elliott’s time in claret and blue has barely produced a meaningful chapter.
With zero goals and zero assists in both the Premier League and Europa League, this spell has been a difficult one for the former Liverpool prodigy.
To be fair, he has only made five appearances under Unai Emery – hardly enough opportunities to settle or showcase his quality. Let’s just say there haven’t been many “Good Ebening’s” for him.
A clause in his loan deal requires Elliott to make ten Premier League appearances to trigger a permanent £35 million transfer. At the moment, that milestone looks increasingly unlikely.
Emery addressed the situation this week amid reports that Villa have already informed Liverpool of their intention to send Elliott back in January. He said:
“Hopefully, we can get a solution for him to try and play consistently, to continue in his career with us or not.
“He is on loan here, but is not definitely adding to us with a permanent contract.”
It’s ironic that Liverpool – desperate at times for a fresh attacking spark this season – might have benefited from having Elliott available on the bench rather than certain other players who have underperformed.
By “certain players” underperforming, yes, I’m talking about Alexander Isak and his single Premier League goal since arriving on Merseyside.
Cheers for the quids lads – I’ll let you guess who I support.
THE NEXT CHAPTER
With minutes scarce at Villa Park, the natural question arises: what comes next for Harvey Elliott?
He remains a young, hungry, and technically gifted player who can still succeed in the Premier League.
This loan clearly hasn’t worked out, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see English clubs – or even teams abroad – willing to take a chance on him.
A permanent departure from Liverpool might be the best move. Following Mohamed Salah out of the Anfield exit door could give Elliott the chance to rebuild his career and become a key figure elsewhere.
He has the talent to shine at the right club, whether that’s in England or beyond. And let’s be honest – handing a midfielder/winger the number nine shirt at Villa was always an odd choice. A sign, perhaps, that the game truly has gone.
