Liverpool are reportedly busy behind the scenes as manager Arne Slot looks to strengthen his squad both in the short and long term. According to reports, the Reds are close to securing new contracts for two key midfielders while also exploring the possibility of recalling a familiar face.
Harvey Elliott’s Uncertain Future at Aston Villa
Harvey Elliott’s loan spell at Aston Villa has not unfolded as many expected. The 22-year-old midfielder, who left Anfield on an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy for £35 million, has struggled to make an impact under Unai Emery. With just two starts in seven appearances and no game time in over a month, questions are being raised about his future at Villa Park.
Former Aston Villa CEO Keith Wyness has suggested that Elliott’s time in the Midlands could be cut short, especially with talk of Liverpool wanting him back before the transfer clauses are triggered. Speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness explained:
“I am surprised because I think he’s a good player, but he hasn’t quite taken the eye of Emery. There’s a big theory that if he gets 10 games, he triggers the obligation to buy — and Liverpool might prefer to have him back instead. They could really use someone like Elliott right now, given their injury issues and the mixed performances of some new signings.”
Among Liverpool supporters, the idea of Elliott’s return is gaining traction. Many fans feel the creative midfielder could add much-needed energy and depth to Arne Slot’s squad.
Double Contract Talks for Szoboszlai and Gravenberch
While rumours swirl around Elliott’s possible return, Liverpool are also focused on securing the futures of two of their standout midfielders — Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch.
Both players, who joined the club in 2023, have flourished under Slot’s management, becoming key figures in Liverpool’s midfield. According to Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, negotiations are progressing positively, though they have not yet reached the final stages. The club is reportedly preparing to offer improved terms, particularly for Szoboszlai, to reflect his growing influence on the team.
Szoboszlai and Gravenberch still have over two years left on their current contracts, but Liverpool want to move early to secure their long-term commitment. Gravenberch, in particular, has become a vital part of the team’s engine room, playing a pivotal role during the Reds’ title-winning campaign and adapting impressively to a deeper midfield role.
What’s Next for Liverpool?
If Liverpool successfully finalise the new deals for Szoboszlai and Gravenberch — and manage to recall Elliott — it would represent a significant statement of intent from Arne Slot’s regime. Strengthening the core of the squad while reuniting with a talented academy product could provide the balance of youth, depth, and experience that Liverpool need to sustain their push for trophies this season.
As the transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on how the club handles these developments — and whether the next few weeks could see a familiar face return to Anfield.
