Liverpool head into a pivotal clash with Manchester City on Sunday, eager to reinforce their Premier League title ambitions. After consecutive victories over Aston Villa and Real Madrid, Arne Slot will hope his side are rediscovering their rhythm at the right time.
Even with full attention on the showdown against City, Liverpool continue to be linked with potential moves ahead of the January transfer window. One rumoured option involves recalling a loanee whose season hasn’t gone as planned. At the same time, the club are reportedly working on contract extensions for two major midfield talents. Mirror Football rounds up the latest stories.
Harvey Elliott loan situation sparks debate
Harvey Elliott’s stint at Aston Villa has been far from ideal. The 22-year-old midfielder has started just twice in seven matches and hasn’t played at all in the past month under Unai Emery.
Elliott joined Villa on an initial loan that includes an obligation to buy for £35 million, but former Villa CEO Keith Wyness believes the deal may not reach that point — and Liverpool might step in before it does.
Wyness told the Inside Track podcast on Football Insider:
“I’m surprised because he’s a very good player, but he hasn’t really impressed Emery. There’s also a theory going around — if he plays 10 matches, the obligation to buy kicks in. Liverpool might want him back, and if the conditions aren’t met, he could return. With the issues they’ve had with some new signings, they might wish they still had him available.”
He added that many Liverpool supporters he has spoken to would prefer to see Elliott in the side over some of the recent signings who have struggled to settle.
Liverpool working on two new contracts
Liverpool are also said to be progressing with negotiations to extend the contracts of midfield duo Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch. Both players joined the club in 2023 and have become key figures under Slot.
According to Fabrizio Romano, talks with Szoboszlai are moving in a positive direction, though an agreement is not yet close. Liverpool are reportedly willing to increase his salary to recognise his growing importance.
Both Szoboszlai and Gravenberch still have around two-and-a-half years left on their existing deals, but the club are aiming to tie them down for the long term. Gravenberch, in particular, played a vital role during the team’s title-winning campaign, flourishing in a deeper role in midfield.
