£35m Midfielder’s Liverpool Career: Is a Surprise Comeback on the Cards for Harvey Elliott?
Liverpool’s rise to the Premier League title under Arne Slot was a mix of bold decisions and tough calls. According to reports from Anfield Watch, sporting director Richard Hughes oversaw a massive £450 million rebuild, breaking the British transfer record twice — first for Florian Wirtz and later for Alexander Isak.
This major overhaul meant several well-known players were either sold or loaned out. Luis Díaz, Darwin Núñez, and Ben Doak left the attacking line, while key names like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Caoimhin Kelleher, and Nat Phillips also moved on. But one move that might take an unexpected turn is Harvey Elliott’s transfer to Aston Villa.
The 22-year-old midfielder left Liverpool in the summer after being seen as surplus to requirements. His loan deal with Villa included a £35 million clause that would make the move permanent after ten appearances. However, he hasn’t reached that mark yet — and that’s raised some eyebrows.
Difficult Spell at Aston Villa
Elliott’s time at Villa hasn’t gone as planned. Anfield Watch notes that he’s featured just five times under Unai Emery, with only three league appearances and around 90 minutes of total playtime. Things got worse during Villa’s Europa Conference League game against Go Ahead Eagles when Emery made five substitutions but didn’t use Elliott. That moment seemed to sum up his struggles in the Midlands.
Villa might also have financial reasons not to finalize the deal, as they’re reportedly close to their spending limit and unlikely to invest £35 million in a player who hasn’t broken into the starting lineup.
Liverpool’s Viewpoint
If the deal falls through, Liverpool could welcome Elliott back. Arne Slot’s current team plays with high energy and tactical flexibility — qualities Elliott showed early in his career. Though the competition is fierce with players like Wirtz, Mac Allister, and Szoboszlai shining, the young midfielder still has the technical skill and mindset to contribute.
A return could offer him a second chance to reignite his career and prove he still belongs at Anfield. It would also make financial sense for Liverpool to retain a talented homegrown player with potential resale value.
What’s Next
Should Aston Villa fail to meet the appearance clause, Elliott could return to Merseyside in January or the summer. Whether that leads to a revival under Slot or another transfer remains uncertain. For now, both clubs are waiting to see how this situation unfolds.
Final Thoughts
For Liverpool fans, the idea of Elliott coming back brings a mix of nostalgia and excitement. Many remember his creativity, composure, and pressing energy from his earlier days. Under Slot’s management, players have found renewed purpose, and Elliott’s versatility could finally work to his advantage.
If he does return, it might just be the fresh start he needs to fulfill the promise that once made him one of England’s brightest young prospects.
