Harvey Elliott’s loan spell at Aston Villa has descended into a “nightmare” scenario after the club decided against triggering a £35 million permanent transfer clause, effectively freezing the Liverpool midfielder out of Unai Emery’s first-team plans.
Despite the departure of Donyell Malen, Villa’s decision to recall Leon Bailey has further congested the squad, leaving Elliott—who has not played a league minute since September—stuck in a professional limbo because FIFA regulations prevent him from joining a third club this season.
Emery addressed the awkward situation directly, stating, “The problem we have with Harvey is that he is on loan, and in case he plays matches we must buy him. We decided two months ago that we are not convinced to sign him, spending the money we would need to.”
With Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirming the Reds have “no recall option,” and the player reportedly uninterested in a move to MLS side Charlotte FC, Elliott appears destined to remain a “training body” at Bodymoor Heath for the remainder of the campaign.