Unai Emery Explains Latest Harvey Elliott Absence as Transfer Twist Emerges

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has provided an update on Harvey Elliott's availability, confirming the 22-year-old midfielder is sidelined by a minor injury but expected to return for the club's Europa League last-16 first leg on March 12. Despite limited appearances since joining on loan from Liverpool last season, a key contractual loophole allows Elliott to feature freely in European competitions without triggering a £35 million permanent buy clause[1][3].

The clause, which Villa has been reluctant to activate, only applies to Premier League matches. Reaching 10 league outings would obligate Villa to purchase Elliott outright, a condition that stalled his integration earlier in the season. Elliott missed nearly four months as negotiations to remove the clause failed. He has since made seven appearances: four in the Premier League, two in the Europa League—including a start in January's 3-2 win over RB Leipzig—and one in the Carabao Cup loss to Brentford[1].

His recent cameos include a substitute role in Villa's 2-0 victory at Newcastle and a bench appearance in a 1-0 Premier League defeat to Brentford. Emery emphasized supporting Elliott's adaptation: "He is injured now... We must carry on, help him as much as we can, make him feel comfortable here. He is going to be available more or less to play in Europe"[1].

This twist resolves Villa's dilemma, enabling Elliott—the former England Under-21 international—to bolster their Europa League campaign without Premier League risk. However, reports suggest Villa may not pursue a permanent deal, leaving Elliott's future uncertain[2]. The update comes amid Villa's January focus on domestic and continental priorities, positioning Elliott as a valuable asset for European glory[1].

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