Harvey Elliott has yet to start a single match for Valencia since Liverpool loaned them the erstwhile England under-21 international during transfer deadline day

Liverpool have reportedly held talks with Valencia over Harvey Elliott as his season-long loan approaches the two-month mark. After spending last term barely playing for Aston Villa, the erstwhile England under-21 international has so far exclusively featured as a substitute in La Liga.

Elliott, 23, has played just a quarter of the available minutes in their six matches since signing him. He has made five appearances after being an unused substitute in one game, the only time Valencia have won.

However, their Copa del Rey campaign starts next week. That is the only other competition they are in this season.

The Spanish side parted ways with Carlos Corberan just weeks after Elliott's arrival. Since then, he has been restricted to substitute appearances, with Valencia found themselves mired in the relegation zone.

Elliott is still seeking a sustained run in the starting XI under new head coach Javier Aguirre. The season is now approaching the second international break before a lengthy run of fixtures that will dominate the remainder of the campaign.

El Partit de la Una reports that Liverpool recently sat down with Valencia officials to receive a progress report on the attacking midfielder's season so far in Spain.

It is reported that an informal discussion took place, at which both clubs agreed that the winger needs to 'step up.' The Spanish side are maintaining the belief that the player can demonstrate his ability this campaign.

However, more is expected of him in the coming weeks and months. That is something that both clubs are in agreement over, challenging Elliott to step up.

It possibly encapsulates the challenging circumstances of Elliott's loan spell at present, as he attempts to influence the side but has limited opportunities to do so. Nevertheless, his new manager recently praised the star and believes the squad must extract the best from him rather than cutting their loses.

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Aguirre said via Superdeporte: "I'm fortunate to be able to communicate in his language. He looks sharper; he's working with a personal nutritionist.

"I'm delighted with his attitude; he has a lot of quality and is a Valencia player. We have to get the best out of him."

Liverpool will undoubtedly be hoping that Elliott can reverse his fortunes, with Valencia still fighting against early relegation concerns in the league this season. With difficult fixtures against Elche, Real Madrid and Villarreal approaching, it remains to be seen whether the loanee will be given his opportunity to impress, or an early return to Merseyside beckons in the New Year.