Pearce points out laughable bid Leipzig made as Liverpool lose Elliott

Before Unai Emery’s side agreed terms, Leipzig had made a move of their own.

According to Pearce, they offered no more than €20m (£17.3m) for Elliott – a figure which looks laughable when you consider his achievements at Liverpool.

The England under-21 international made 149 appearances for us, scored in the Champions League away at PSG, and was part of a squad that won seven major honours including last season’s Premier League.

When compared with fees paid this summer – Tyler Dibling to Everton for £40m, Jacob Ramsey to Newcastle for £40m and Omari Hutchinson to Nottingham Forest for £37.5m – Leipzig’s bid stands out as one of the most undervalued in Europe.

Why Liverpool still hold the cards

Even though the Villa deal feels undervalued, Liverpool have protected themselves with a buy-back clause.

That means if Elliott shines at Villa Park, as many expect him to, his Anfield story can resume in the future.

Pearce summed it up best: “Liverpool will miss Harvey Elliott but his Anfield story may not be finished yet.”

With Florian Wirtz already signed for £116m, it was always going to be difficult for the youngster to get minutes this season under Arne Slot.

But his technical quality, big-game contributions and loyalty mean his time with us should not be underestimated.

Elliott will return to Anfield with Villa in November – and he is certain to receive the reception his efforts in red deserve.