Liverpool could make a January move for Aston Villa’s creative midfielder.

Harvey Elliott made the switch from Liverpool to Aston Villa during the summer transfer window in search of the regular playing time he couldn’t secure at Anfield.

The versatile midfielder struggled for minutes under Arne Slot last season, which prompted him to seek a move elsewhere. Unai Emery appeared to offer him a fresh start, securing his signature on a loan deal. However, things haven’t gone as planned.

After just seven appearances and one goal for Villa, Elliott’s attempt to reignite his career is proving challenging. The 22-year-old has featured only four times in the Premier League so far, leading to growing speculation that he could return to Liverpool in January.

Although Villa’s agreement includes a £35 million obligation to buy, the situation could change before then. Former Aston Villa CEO Keith Wyness recently shared his thoughts on the player’s uncertain future.

“I’m surprised, because I think he’s a good player, but he hasn’t really caught Emery’s eye,” Wyness told Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast. “There’s even a theory that if he reaches 10 appearances, the obligation to buy kicks in. Liverpool might want him back, so if that deal isn’t triggered, he could return. With Liverpool’s current injury and form issues, they could probably use him right now. Many Liverpool fans I’ve spoken to would rather see Elliott in the side than some of the recent signings.”

With Emery struggling to integrate him effectively, Liverpool may look to end his loan spell early. The Reds have had issues with midfield depth this season — an area where Elliott often made a difference last year.

Whether it was a mistake to let him go remains to be seen, but one thing seems clear: Arne Slot’s squad would be stronger with Harvey Elliott back in it.