By Martin Graham
when Harvey Elliott arrived at Aston Villa on loan from Liverpool last August, the move seemed like a logical next step. He arrived as a Premier League title winner, fresh from being named the best player at the European Under-21 Championship, and hoping for regular minutes that could strengthen his case for England’s World Cup squad.
Instead, five months later, the midfielder is caught between two clubs. Playing time has been scarce, confidence in his role is unclear and his long-term destination remains unresolved. Although he is still officially a Villa player for now, neither Villa nor Liverpool seem eager to shape their future plans around him.
Elliott remains at Villa Park after the winter window, but there is no clarity. The original expectation of momentum and exposure has given way to frustration and uncertainty, leaving a highly regarded 22-year-old in football limbo.
A deal that no one seems to want
The loan deal includes a clause that would make Elliott’s move a permanent £35m transfer if he reaches 10 games this season. He is currently just three games away from breaking that mark.
Despite this, Villa boss Unai Emery has repeatedly stated that he has no intention of keeping Elliott beyond the loan. The deal was arranged under former president of football operations Monchi, with discussions between Villa and Liverpool over adjusting terms recently failing to reach a compromise.
Emery has been consistent in his message. Speaking last week, he stressed that nothing had changed in his thinking, even as he praised Elliott’s character. This position has remained steadfast throughout the campaign, regardless of the circumstances.
Elliott’s minutes underscore the situation. He completed a full game against RB Salzburg in the Europa League and appeared as a substitute in the defeat at Brentford, but those were his first starts since early October. Before that, opportunities were very limited.
Team issues can change the picture
While Emery’s vision hasn’t changed, Villa’s squad picture has. Long-term injuries to Boubacar Kamara, John McGinn and Youri Tielemans have reduced midfield options, particularly in the more advanced roles that Elliott can occupy.
If Villa progress to the Europa League and FA Cup finals, they could face a 61-game season. Reinforcements have arrived, including Douglas Luiz on loan from Juventus and Tammy Abraham in attack, while Leon Bailey has returned from Roma.
At the same time, others have left or have not arrived. Evann Guessand moved to Crystal Palace on loan, Donyell Malen was sold to Roma and Villa failed to secure Conor Gallagher, who joined Tottenham after lengthy talks.
The end result is a smaller team in the Elliott Field area. His style of play aligns more with McGinn and Tielemans than with deeper midfielders or wide forwards, which could increase his utility as the schedule intensifies.
Professionalism in the midst of uncertainty
Despite the lack of confidence shown in the selection, Elliott’s approach has been praised internally. He is popular in the dressing room and has maintained a positive attitude in training.
This was highlighted by captain Tyrone Mings, who jokingly referred to Elliott’s return to action on social media after the Salzburg game. It was a joyous moment in a difficult season for the midfielder.
Physically, Elliott looks ready. Last week’s full 90 minutes in Europe came after nearly four months out of regular action, but he showed no signs of struggling with fitness.
Speculation has emerged over a possible move to Major League Soccer, where the transfer window remains open until March. However, this option is not being considered by the player, who is expected to stay and expects circumstances to force a change of selection.
Liverpool withdraw from the situation
From Liverpool’s perspective, the matter is now Villa’s responsibility. The club financially planned the transfer fee and no longer covers Elliott’s wages.
A return to Anfield seems highly unlikely. Head coach Arne Slot has acknowledged Elliott’s qualities but has not stopped short of suggesting he remains part of Liverpool’s plans.
After Elliott’s recent appearance, Slot said it was good to see him back on the pitch, but emphasized that his condition is clear. According to his words, Elliott is currently an Aston Villa player.
With three more appearances enough to trigger a permanent move, Elliott faces the unusual prospect of being linked with a club whose manager has openly expressed his lack of interest. For a player once seen as one of England’s brightest young talents, the question of where he will play next season has rarely felt more uncertain.
