It's Now "Almost Certain" That "Special" Liverpool Player Will Be Moving to Different League

Harvey Elliott, the 22-year-old Liverpool midfielder hailed as a "special" talent, is on the verge of a surprising transfer to Major League Soccer (MLS) amid a stalled loan at Aston Villa. Sources close to the club indicate it's now "almost certain" that Elliott will depart for a new league to revive his career, despite initial reluctance[1][2].

Elliott joined Aston Villa on a season-long loan in August 2025, valued at around £35 million with an obligation to buy if he made 10 appearances. However, the move has turned into a nightmare. The Englishman, who began the season with Liverpool (appearing off the bench against Newcastle), has only featured five times for Villa—none since October—logging just 167 minutes. Manager Unai Emery admitted in December that the club had "decided" against a permanent deal, stating Elliott is "not currently with us" and they are seeking the best outcome[2][3].

FIFA regulations complicate matters: having played competitive matches for two European clubs this season, Elliott cannot join a third in leagues following the summer-to-spring calendar. This leaves MLS as a viable option outside Europe. Charlotte FC has emerged as frontrunners, planning a loan similar to Wilfried Zaha's 2025 move, after expressing strong interest per The Athletic[1][2][4].

Initially, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported Elliott had "no interest" in MLS, viewing it as a career step back at this stage[1]. Yet, with Villa unwilling to terminate the loan early—despite a hefty fee and wage commitment—and no recall option for Liverpool, pressure mounts. Insiders now say Elliott sees regular minutes in the U.S. as essential, making the switch "almost certain" by January's end[3].

Liverpool faces a headache, as Elliott's limbo hurts all parties. The versatile left-footed playmaker, a product of the club's academy since 2019, craves consistent football to fulfill his top-tier potential. A Charlotte move could provide that until summer, potentially paving the way for a European return[1][2].

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