Overview
- Unai Emery has indicated Aston Villa do not plan a permanent move, with an appearance trigger at around 10 games set to cost roughly £30–35m.
- Elliott has not featured since early October and has only seven appearances, with Villa selections shaped by the clause that would obligate a buy.
- Liverpool are exploring an early return, but the loan contains no unilateral recall right and the Liverpool Echo reports a termination could carry financial penalties for Villa.
- FIFA registration limits mean Elliott, having already played for Liverpool and Villa, would be unable to represent a third European club this season.
- Birmingham Live reports MLS side Charlotte FC are among clubs eyeing a solution on a different calendar, while finance voices suggest Villa could seek to end the loan and recoup a share of wages.