Harvey Elliott is currently having a difficult time at Aston Villa and lacks prospects. A move to the MLS is increasingly coming into focus as a possible solution.
Just a few months ago, Harvey Elliott was still considered a former wonderkid with a big Premier League future – now he’s hit a dead end and is looking for a way out.
Since mid-October, the 22-year-old has not been in Aston Villa’s squad for the Premier League. Although he occasionally makes it into the matchday squad in the Europa League, he doesn’t get any playing time there either.
Things are not going according to plan for Harvey Elliott at Aston Villa
Elliott’s Transfer to Aston Villa Becomes a Flop
Shortly before the transfer deadline on September 1, the Englishman was loaned from Liverpool to league rival Aston Villa at the last minute. However, the loan quickly turned into a flop.
Playing time was absent, a clear perspective is still not recognizable – and his medium-term future is more than questionable.
Clear Statement from Emery
Aston Villa coach Unai Emery recently spoke openly about the Englishman’s situation. “Hopefully, we’ll find a solution for him so he can try to play consistently and continue his career with us, or not,” explains the Spaniard. Emery also emphasizes: “I have spoken with him two or three times about the situation. He is a loaned player with us – but he will definitely not get a permanent contract with us.”
A statement that unmistakably underlines Elliott’s difficult situation. The loan agreement stipulates that Aston Villa would be obliged to buy Elliott if he makes ten competitive appearances. The transfer fee would be 35 million pounds (around 40 million euros). However, given the lack of playing time, this scenario is considered practically impossible – which is also why it has been speculated whether Emery is deliberately not fielding him.
European Options Blocked – MLS the Last Resort?
A quick change of scenery within Europe is not possible for Elliott. Since he has already played for two clubs this season, further European moves are ruled out, as one is not allowed to play for three different teams within one season. The options are shrinking – and with them, the chance for urgently needed playing time.
Precisely for this reason, a move to the MLS is getting closer. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano brings the US league into play as a realistic alternative, especially with an eye on Charlotte FC. An engagement in North America could offer Elliott immediate playing time and a fresh start.
Whether the MLS will indeed be the last resort remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that Elliott is at a crucial point in his career – and his coach’s statements make it clear how serious the situation at Aston Villa is.