Harvey Elliott ‘situation not changing’ despite returning to Aston Villa squad – Unai Emery – The Athletic
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has admitted Harvey Elliott’s “situation is not changing” despite returning to the squad against Newcastle United last Sunday.
Emery, speaking ahead of Villa’s Europa League home match against RB Salzburg on Thursday, confirmed that Elliott’s future remains uncertain until the transfer window closes on February 2.
Earlier this month, Emery acknowledged there was a reluctance for the 22-year-old to play more games, with the Liverpool loanee needing five more matches in order for Villa to trigger the obligation to buy him.
Villa sources, speaking on the condition of anonymity, insisted the fee was closer to £30million ($41.3m), while Liverpool said it was £35m ($48.2m). Elliott has played five times this season, but had not featured in a matchday squad, prior to Villa’s trip to Newcastle on Sunday, since November.
“The problem we have with Harvey (Elliott) is this year he is on loan, and in case he is playing matches, we must buy him,” Emery said on January 2.
“We decided two months ago that we are not convinced to sign him, spending the money we need. This is the issue.”
While Elliott did not come on against Newcastle, his surprise return to the squad prompted questions as to whether he could stay at Villa for the remainder of the season. He has not featured for the club since he came off the bench during the 2-0 Europa League victory over Feyernoord on October 2.
Emery, however, acknowledged Villa’s position on Elliott had not altered when asked directly whether an agreement about losing the obligation clause could happen.
“There are still five days to finish the window,” said the Spaniard. “Everything we accepted before, only some injuries can change it, like Douglas Luiz is a player joining us because we had injuries in centre midfield. With Harvey, it’s not changing. Our idea is that we spoke to him clearly. He’s a fantastic guy.
“On Sunday, he was on the bench, and if we needed some help from him, he was ready to do it. He is in the squad tomorrow. But the situation is not changing for him that he has now.” Earlier in the window, Elliott received interest from MLS side Charlotte FC.
For Villa to terminate the agreement, they would have to pay a fee to Liverpool. The England youth international is unable to play for another club in Europe, having already featured for two teams this season.
