'It blocks the path for me' - Harvey Elliott admits new Liverpool arrivals could force him into summer transfer exit as midfielder targets England spot at 2026 World Cup

Liverpool FC v Southampton FC - Premier League

Harvey Elliott has once again hinted at a possible Liverpool exit after admitting next year's World Cup might force him to consider his future.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Elliott started just two Premier League games last season, and in June, he admitted he doesn't want to be "wasting years" at the club. Following the £116 million ($156m) summer arrival of Florian Wirtz, the attacking midfielder may struggle even more for game time next term. And with the 22-year-old targeting a 2026 World Cup spot, an Anfield departure could be in the offing.

Fulham FC v Liverpool FC - Premier League

WHAT ELLIOTT SAID

He told the Anfield Wrap: "If I had it my way, I would be here for the rest of my career, it's as simple as that. I love everything about the club, but at the same time, I kind of need to be selfish and see what's best for me. I have big ambitions. I want to get in the World Cup squad. I want to keep being successful as a player. It's something I still need to review. I need to have a talk with everyone and review the situation. We have many new players who have come in, so whether it blocks the path for me, I'm not sure. It's something I need to have a look at and decide."

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Liverpool romped to the Premier League title last season and have strengthened in the transfer market ahead of the 2025-26 campaign to the tune of nearly £300m. As Arne Slot's team prepare to defend their title, some fringe players may be moved on, and as Elliott is a homegrown player, his sale would go down as pure profit on the balance sheet. The youngster has a big decision to make in the coming weeks on his future.

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WHAT NEXT?

Liverpool play AC Milan, Yokohama FC, Athletic Club and Crystal Palace in the run-up to the new Premier League season. Elliott may just have a matter of weeks to convince Slot he has what it takes to earn a bigger role in the team next term.