Harvey Elliott Handed Left-Field Transfer Option and Aston Villa Escape Route

Liverpool Echo – In a surprising twist to Harvey Elliott's future at Liverpool FC, the 23-year-old midfielder has been presented with an unconventional transfer pathway involving Aston Villa and the MLS. As Arne Slot's Reds navigate a competitive Premier League season, Elliott's limited starting opportunities—owing to stiff competition from the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Curtis Jones—have fueled speculation about a potential January move.

The report highlights Aston Villa's interest under Unai Emery, who views Elliott as a dynamic addition to their squad pushing for Champions League qualification. Villa, currently flying high in fourth place, see the England international as an "escape route" from Liverpool's crowded midfield, offering him regular minutes in a high-ambition project. However, the left-field element emerges from a proposed dual-deal structure: a loan to Villa until the season's end, followed by a summer switch to Inter Miami in the MLS.

Inter Miami, bolstered by Lionel Messi's presence, are aggressively expanding their roster with Premier League talents. Sources indicate Miami's willingness to cover a significant portion of Elliott's £70,000 weekly wages, making the deal financially viable for all parties. Liverpool, valuing Elliott's homegrown status and £50m market price, would retain a buy-back clause and a sell-on percentage, ensuring long-term profit.

Elliott, who burst onto the scene post his 2019 loan at Barnsley and impressed during spells at Blackburn, has made 19 appearances this term (2 goals, 3 assists) but craves consistent football ahead of Euro 2028. Slot has praised his versatility but admitted the depth hampers rotation. Villa's Douglas Luiz could move the other way in a swap, easing FFP concerns.

Fans are divided: some decry losing a fan favorite, others back a move for his development. Negotiations remain at an early stage, but this MLS-Villa hybrid could redefine Elliott's trajectory.

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