Finance expert: Liverpool & Aston Villa could renew Harvey Elliott agreement as talks mooted

Liverpool and Aston Villa Eye New Harvey Elliott Deal Amid Loan Struggles

Harvey Elliott's season-long loan from Liverpool to Aston Villa for the 2025/26 campaign has faltered, prompting fresh discussions between the clubs for a potential early termination or revised agreement.[1][2][3]

The 22-year-old England Under-21 international joined Villa last summer with an obligation for a £35 million permanent transfer if he reached 10 Premier League appearances. However, Elliott has managed only five outings, his last against Feyenoord on December 2, leading manager Unai Emery to confirm months ago that no further involvement was planned.[1][2][5] Emery's decision has left Elliott sidelined for three months, derailing what was meant to be a pathway to a full move.[3]

Complicating matters is a FIFA rule: having played for both Liverpool and Villa this season, Elliott cannot feature for a third club in Europe without overlapping seasons. This restricts options to leagues like MLS or Brazil's Serie A.[1][2][5] Reports suggest MLS interest, including from Charlotte FC, though sources close to Elliott have downplayed it.[2][3] Football insider Mick Brown claims a short-term MLS loan is "almost certain," providing vital minutes before a summer return.[3][4]

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has distanced the club, stating Elliott is a Villa player for the season with no recall clause. His Anfield contract expires in 2027, but Slot's comments indicate he's not in long-term plans despite past praise.[1][2] Both clubs are exploring termination, potentially involving a severance fee for Villa, to free Elliott without complications.[3]

A mutually agreed solution—possibly a new deal or loan adjustment—could resolve the impasse, prioritizing Elliott's need for game time to revive his career. While MLS offers a short-term fix, ongoing talks between Liverpool and Villa may yield a European pathway next summer.[1][2][3]

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