Liverpool manager Arne Slot is reportedly weighing up a surprise move to bring Harvey Elliott back to Anfield in January, following the midfielder’s difficult loan spell at Aston Villa.

Elliott, who left Liverpool in the summer in search of regular first-team football, has struggled to secure meaningful minutes under Unai Emery. The 22-year-old has made only a handful of appearances and has recently fallen completely out of Villa’s matchday squad, raising concerns about his development.

According to club insiders, Slot and his staff have been closely monitoring Elliott’s situation and are growing increasingly worried that the loan is not benefiting him as expected. With Liverpool battling injuries and needing more creativity in midfield, Elliott is now being viewed as a potential in-house solution.

Sources suggest that Liverpool included a performance-related clause in the loan agreement, meaning the club could recall Elliott if he fails to reach a certain number of appearances. With Villa showing little intention of giving him more playing time, that option could soon be activated.

Inside Anfield, there is a belief that Elliott’s energy, versatility, and ability to unlock tight defences would immediately strengthen the squad—especially during a period where several new signings are still settling in.

For Slot, bringing Elliott back would not only offer depth but also restore a player he sees as part of Liverpool’s long-term future. The manager is said to be keen on reintroducing him gradually, potentially using him as an impact substitute before giving him a more defined role later in the season.

With the January transfer window approaching, all eyes will be on Liverpool’s next move. If Elliott’s situation at Aston Villa doesn’t improve soon, a mid-season return to Anfield is starting to look increasingly likely.

liverpool close to completing two new deals

Liverpool are reportedly making progress on new contracts for Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch. Both players arrived in 2023 and have become important figures under Arne Slot.

Fabrizio Romano reports that talks with Szoboszlai are moving forward, with Liverpool prepared to increase his salary due to his rising importance.

Although both still have two-and-a-half years left on their contracts, Liverpool want to secure their long-term futures. Gravenberch, in particular, has developed into a key player, thriving in a deeper midfield role during the title-winning campaign.