Harvey Elliott Out of Options Thanks to FIFA Rule and Could Face MLS Transfer Reality

Harvey Elliott, the 22-year-old Liverpool midfielder, finds himself in a precarious position during his loan spell at Aston Villa in the 2025/26 season. Loaned out as part of Liverpool's major squad overhaul—following their Premier League title win—the deal included a £35 million obligation to buy if Elliott made 10 appearances. However, with only five outings and none since early October, Unai Emery has frozen him out, derailing the permanent transfer Liverpool anticipated.[1][2][4]

Liverpool, reportedly "hugely annoyed" by the lack of game time, is considering intervening, potentially cutting the loan short in January. Elliott, a two-time Premier League champion, had hoped for senior England opportunities, but his stalled career now hinges on finding regular football elsewhere.[1][4]

Complicating matters is FIFA's strict rule: players can register with a maximum of three clubs per season but play official matches for only two. Having featured for Liverpool and Villa already, Elliott cannot play competitively for another European club this term, ruling out rumored loans to Leeds United or Brentford—described as "ridiculous" suggestions.[2][3]

An exception exists for leagues with overlapping seasons, like MLS or Brazil's Brasileirão, where he could join a third club. With MLS's 2026 season starting soon after January's transfer window and interest mounting from American sides—eager to boost profiles ahead of the World Cup hosted in the US—it's a viable option. Yet, BBC Sport reports neither Liverpool nor Elliott are currently considering a Stateside move.[1][3][4][5]

Talks between Liverpool and Villa loom, with the Reds possibly seeking compensation. For Elliott, sidelined for three months while loanee Jadon Sancho thrives, the situation is frustrating. A return to Anfield or an MLS switch could revive his ambitions, but time is running out this season.[2][5]

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