The loan move of Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott to Aston Villa has turned into a stark disappointment, with the player's prospects at Villa Park fading rapidly. The 22-year-old, who joined Villa in the summer, has now been excluded from their last nine consecutive Premier League matchday squads.
A Costly Absence and a Clause in Limbo
This extended absence carries significant financial implications. Elliott's deal includes an obligation-to-buy clause for Aston Villa set at £35 million. However, this clause is reportedly contingent on the midfielder making 10 appearances for the club. With Elliott stuck on just five outings so far and consistently overlooked by manager Unai Emery, the activation of that permanent transfer looks increasingly improbable.
The situation was highlighted again during Villa's impressive 2-1 victory over league leaders Arsenal at Villa Park. Despite the high-profile fixture, Elliott was not involved, continuing a pattern that has seen him miss the squad for their last seven top-flight matches entirely.
January Exit? A Reality Check on Transfer Rules
His lack of action has naturally sparked speculation about a premature end to the loan when the January transfer window opens. However, a major obstacle stands in the way of any swift departure. Having already played for Liverpool earlier this season, alongside his five Villa appearances, FIFA regulations prevent him from registering for a third club this campaign.
This means that if Elliott does cut short his Villa stay in January, his only possible destination would be a return to his parent club, Liverpool. A mid-season recall would leave the Reds to reassess his future, but a move elsewhere before next summer is off the table.
Slot's Distant View and a Tough Villa Schedule Ahead
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has addressed the situation, admitting he has had minimal contact with Elliott and has not discussed his playing time struggles at Villa. "I haven't had contact with him a lot," Slot stated. "I am aware of his situation, of course. I knew how difficult it already was for him over here, so I think I know how he feels at this moment."
Slot pointedly added that questions about Elliott's minutes should be directed at Aston Villa, not Liverpool. The coming weeks offer a daunting fixture list for Villa, with matches against Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal again, and Nottingham Forest. It remains to be seen whether this congested period will finally provide Elliott with a route back onto the pitch, or if his exile will continue.
