Aston Villa have emerged as frontrunners to sign Liverpool’s versatile midfielder Harvey Elliott, with sources indicating that the 22-year-old is enthusiastic about joining Unai Emery’s ambitious project at Villa Park. According to a report from TEAMtalk, Villa have initiated contact to secure Elliott’s signature, positioning themselves ahead of competitors like West Ham United in what could be one of the summer’s most exciting Premier League transfers.
Villa’s Bold Move for Elliott
Under Unai Emery’s guidance, Aston Villa have transformed into a formidable force, consistently competing for European places in recent seasons. The club’s upward trajectory, bolstered by their Champions League qualification, has made them an attractive destination for top talents. Elliott, a creative and dynamic midfielder, has caught Villa’s attention with his impressive performances, despite limited starts at Liverpool. With 119 appearances for the Reds, including 10 goals and 11 assists, Elliott’s potential to thrive in Emery’s high-pressing, fluid system is undeniable.
Sources confirm that Villa are confident in their pursuit, with Elliott reportedly eager to join a club where he can secure regular first-team football. Liverpool, while not actively pushing to sell the England U21 international, are open to offers around £35million, given his contract runs until 2027. This valuation could prove a bargain for a player of Elliott’s caliber, especially as Villa aim to strengthen their squad for the demands of domestic and European competitions.
Aston Villa intend to sign Marco Asensio but the high demands of PSG put the move in doubt.
— 𝐓𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐕𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚 (@Total_Villa) June 26, 2025
Due to this, Aston Villa are looking at potential alternatives and Harvey Elliott is one of the names on their list 🟣🔵
✍️ - [@Estadio_ED] #avfc pic.twitter.com/OFuJeEOuot
Competition from West Ham
West Ham United, now managed by Graham Potter, have also entered the race for Elliott, with sources describing the Hammers as “very, very keen” to land the midfielder. Potter sees Elliott as a key addition to a squad aiming to improve on their previous campaign, offering him the promise of regular minutes. However, Villa’s recent success and Emery’s proven track record of developing young talent could give them the edge in negotiations. The prospect of Champions League football at Villa Park is a significant draw, aligning with Elliott’s ambitions to compete at the highest level.
🥇| @alex_crook: West Ham are planning talks with Liverpool this week over a deal for Harvey Elliott. pic.twitter.com/SJzJEAH2wJ
— Anfield Edition | æ (@AnfieldEdition) July 15, 2025
Why Elliott Fits Villa’s Vision
Elliott’s versatility, work rate, and flair make him an ideal fit for Emery’s system, which prioritizes high energy and attacking fluidity. His ability to operate in central midfield or as a No. 10 complements Villa’s existing options, such as Jacob Ramsey and Morgan Rogers, who have also been linked with moves away from the club. Elliott’s experience at Liverpool, combined with his desire for a more prominent role, aligns perfectly with Villa’s need for a dynamic midfielder to bolster their squad depth.The TEAMtalk report highlights that Elliott’s future is a priority for both the player and Liverpool, with discussions expected to intensify in the coming weeks. Villa’s proactive approach, including early talks with Elliott’s camp, positions them as the frontrunners, but they must act swiftly to fend off West Ham and other potential suitors.
Harvey Elliott solo brilliance 🌟#U21EURO pic.twitter.com/6sPb52L9dR
— UEFA Men's Youth (@UEFAMensYouth) July 14, 2025
Villa’s Busy Transfer Window
Aston Villa’s interest in Elliott is part of a broader strategy to strengthen their squad for a challenging season. The club has already been linked with high-profile targets, including Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher and Chelsea’s Axel Disasi, as Emery looks to build a team capable of competing on multiple fronts. Meanwhile, Villa are also fending off interest in their own stars, with Newcastle reportedly eyeing striker Ollie Watkins and Liverpool linked with midfielder Morgan Rogers.
The potential departure of Watkins, who has been displaced by Marcus Rashford in Emery’s pecking order, could further influence Villa’s transfer plans. If Villa opt to make Rashford’s loan move permanent, Watkins may seek a move elsewhere, potentially opening the door for Liverpool to pursue the England striker. This intricate web of transfers underscores Villa’s active role in the market as they balance squad-building with retaining key players.
What’s Next for Elliott and Villa?
As the transfer window progresses, Aston Villa’s pursuit of Harvey Elliott will be one to watch. Emery’s ability to sell his vision to the young midfielder, combined with the promise of regular football and Champions League exposure, could prove decisive. For Elliott, a move to Villa offers the chance to establish himself as a Premier League star, building on his already impressive resume.With West Ham lurking and Liverpool open to negotiations, the coming weeks will be crucial. If Villa can secure Elliott’s signature for around £35million, it would represent a significant coup, signaling their intent to compete with the Premier League’s elite. For now, Emery and Villa are ready to trump their rivals and bring the talented midfielder to Villa Park.