Premier League star could be key factor in denying Harvey Elliott transfer lifeline
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Liverpool.com or go back to LFC Live.
Harvey Elliott is eyeing a move away from Anfield this summer following a dismal loan spell at Aston Villa this season, where his lack of game time has stunted his developmentBrajan Gruda's future could directly determine Harvey Elliott's next clubRB Leipzig is reportedly exploring the option of signing Harvey Elliott, but it all depends on whether the German side can secure a deal with Brighton for loan star Brajan Gruda.The 23-year-old moved to Aston Villa on a season-long loan last summer in search of a fresh start. During the previous campaign, in which Liverpool won the Premier League under Arne Slot, Elliott played just 360 minutes of league football.After a bright start under Unai Emery, where Elliott scored Villa's first goal of the season in an EFL Cup clash against Brentford, things quickly began to unravel for the youngster.READ MORE: Chelsea timeline for appointing Xabi Alonso as Liverpool keeps faith with Arne SlotREAD MORE: Jamie Redknapp says there is 'elephant in the room' over Arne Slot future at LiverpoolAston Villa had a clause in the loan deal whereby, if Elliott made 10 Premier League appearances, the Midlands side would be obligated to buy the player for £35m.For reasons Villa manager Emery has not disclosed, Elliott has been used sparingly in order to avoid triggering that clause.Now confirmed to be returning to Anfield for pre-season, Elliott is reportedly considering a permanent exit.
Brajan Gruda, who is on loan at Leipzig from Brighton, has made a significant impact at the German club this season, helping them secure Champions League football.Unai Emery has said the Harvey Elliott situation has been embarrassing(Image: PA)There is no option-to-buy clause in the midfielder's loan contract, so a gap could open up in Leipzig's midfield. However, there is a strong chance that the German side will attempt to sign Gruda permanently if Brighton are open to a deal.If they are unable to reach an agreement with the Seagulls, Leipzig will reportedly turn their attention to Elliott.
The report from BILD states that Leipzig are eyeing a deal for Elliott worth around £15m-£20m.Emery spoke about Elliott's situation ahead of Villa's clash with Liverpool. But of course, it’s never nice for a player not to make so many minutes, especially after the season he had with us, where he made – I assume – even more minutes with us than these 280."The reason Leipzig could secure a cut-price deal is due to Elliott's current contract situation at Liverpool.