England Under-21 star Harvey Elliott could be offered a sensational route out of his Aston Villa struggles with a potential move to Major League Soccer in the United States.
Villa Loan Spell Turns Sour
The 22-year-old midfielder, who joined Villa on loan from Liverpool last summer, has endured a torrid time at the Midlands club. Despite being the star of England's triumphant Under-21 European Championship campaign, Elliott has found himself firmly on the fringes under manager Unai Emery, making minimal appearances.
This lack of game time has sparked early discussions about cutting short his season-long loan. Complicating matters is a clause in the loan agreement: a £35 million permanent transfer to Villa would be automatically triggered if Elliott features in ten Premier League matches for them. Emery has publicly stated the player has no long-term future at Villa Park.
Charlotte FC Emerge as Shock Suitors
The situation has opened the door for an unconventional solution. MLS outfit Charlotte FC, managed by former Aston Villa boss Dean Smith, are reportedly keen to bring Elliott across the Atlantic. According to reports, the club has secured the 'discovery rights' for the player, a mechanism used in MLS to gain priority in signing a specific individual.
Charlotte's general manager, Zoran Krneta, alongside Smith, possesses strong connections within British football, which they believe will aid their pursuit. With European regulations preventing Elliott from playing for a third club on the continent this season after turning out for Liverpool and Villa, a move to the USA presents a viable, if unexpected, pathway.
Weighing Up a Transatlantic Switch
Elliott's initial preference was understood to be remaining in the Premier League to fight for his place. However, with that prospect looking increasingly unlikely, the attractions of a high-profile move to MLS are being considered.
The upcoming World Cup, to be held in North America, adds a significant layer to the decision. A move could generate considerable attention and provide a platform for the playmaker to showcase his talent ahead of the global tournament. Any transfer is likely only to be a short-term arrangement until the summer, allowing Elliott to reassess his options at the season's end.
His future at parent club Liverpool appears bleak. Signed by Jurgen Klopp and highly rated after his early career at Fulham, Elliott was used sparingly by current Reds boss Arne Slot last season, primarily as a substitute. While he has excelled internationally, establishing himself consistently at club level remains his primary challenge. A stint in MLS with Charlotte FC, led by a familiar manager in Dean Smith, could now provide the fresh start he desperately needs.
