Unai Emery says Aston Villa have been negotiating with Liverpool for three months over the loan terms that affect Harvey Elliott’s playing time as they look to involve the midfielder more in the run-in. Elliott moved to Villa on Deadline Day in September on a temporary deal that includes an obligation to buy if appearance conditions are met.
The England U21 midfielder has featured sparingly, making seven appearances so far. He did not play between October 2 and Villa’s final Europa League group game against RB Salzburg last month. The permanent transfer would be triggered if he reaches 10 appearances overall, including at least five in the second half of the season.
Emery acknowledged that limited minutes have been damaging for Elliott but said the club has tried to balance sporting needs with the commercial terms of the loan. He described two dimensions to the situation — sport and business — and said he has been open with the player about both.
From a purely sporting perspective Emery said Elliott deserves more opportunities because he can help the team as Villa juggle three competitions. However, the coach stressed the business clauses in the loan give Liverpool a decisive role: while Emery’s selection preference is clear, Liverpool retain control over whether the clause remains in place.
Villa were active in the winter transfer window, bringing in Tammy Abraham from Besiktas, securing Douglas Luiz on loan from Juventus, and recalling Leon Bailey from his loan at Roma. Emery said talks with Liverpool about removing the obligation clause can continue outside the transfer window, but emphasized that Liverpool ultimately decide whether to lift it. He reiterated that discussions began around three months ago.
Emery praised Elliott’s character, calling him calm, professional and passionate. He said the club has tried to act responsibly but accepts the situation has hurt the player. If Liverpool agree to remove the clause, Elliott’s prospects for more game time could change; if they do not, Villa will respect that outcome.