Overview
- Villa are reported to be working on terminating Elliott's season-long loan, which includes an obligation to buy if he reaches a set appearance threshold.
- Unai Emery confirmed the club decided not to sign Elliott permanently and has withheld selection to avoid activating the clause after just five appearances.
- Charlotte FC head coach Dean Smith said he has explored bringing Elliott on a short-term deal, describing it as a way to give him games this winter.
- Reports indicate Charlotte would seek only a loan and the MLS primary transfer window opens on January 26, creating a feasible near-term pathway for minutes.
- Because Elliott has already played for Liverpool and Villa this season, FIFA rules bar a third European club move, and any early return would require financial talks between Villa and Liverpool.