Arne Slott has given a candid response to suggestions that Liverpool could bring back Harvey Elliott during the January transfer window. Elliott has not featured for Villa since early October and manager Unai Emery appears reluctant to use the Liverpool loanee. The Midlands outfit secured Elliott on loan and made the move permanent in 2026, provided he makes 10 appearances for the club.
He has only appeared in five games so far, and it is doubtful whether his permanent transfer clause will be triggered. Elliott faces a difficult predicament as FIFA rules prevent players from representing more than three clubs within one campaign. Elliott, who has already been linked with both Liverpool and Villa this term, is only able to return to regular football if he forces his way into Emery’s plans or returns to Anfield under Slott’s guidance.
But Slott made his position clear, interrupting a reporter before he could finish his question about the 22-year-old’s possible return to Anfield. “No, Harvey is an Aston Villa player,” Slott declared in a press conference on Tuesday.
“He’s going to be there for the season. If you have any questions about him, the best place to ask them is Villa. They’re doing very well by the way.”
Slott also revealed that the team is not currently looking to make any additions in January, despite battling injury concerns. Earlier in the press conference, Slott was asked about the possibility of signing Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth and the possibility of recalling Elliott.
“My first and only thought is about the upcoming match,” Slott replied. “We have two difficult games at home (against Wolves and Leeds). It’s time for the players and the fans to help us, where we have to give everything to get the result we want. The available players and the fans need to give everything they have.”
Liverpool are currently suffering from a spate of injuries, the latest of which was suffered by Alexander Isak in Saturday’s win over Tottenham. “It’s going to be a long injury,” Slott revealed about Isak. “A few months. That’s a huge disappointment for him and for us.”
