Aston Villa decided two months ago not to sign Harvey Elliott on a permanent basis, a call that has left the Liverpool loanee unable to play Premier League matches.
The midfielder joined Villa on loan with an obligation to buy tied to appearances, but Unai Emery said the club has avoided selecting Elliott to prevent triggering the clause.
The 22-year-old has not featured in the league since September and last played in October as a late Europa League substitute.
Emery admitted the situation is awkward for all involved but said Villa were not convinced about committing the funds needed to complete the transfer.
Elliott continues to train with the squad despite being sidelined from matchdays.
Villa sit third in the table, six points off leaders Arsenal, ahead of Saturday’s home game against Nottingham Forest.
They will be without several injured players, including Tyrone Mings, Pau Torres, Amadou Onana, Ross Barkley, Evann Guessand and Alysson.
