PRINCE Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly angling for a very particular kind of comeback in the UK: private life, but with the option of popping up alongside the working royals.

A source described the ideal set-up as “private royals-plus” — staying non-working and “much more ‘private’ than ‘working’”, while still being present at major family moments such as Christmas at Sandringham. The problem? It would take agreement from “all sides”, and the same source questioned how that could happen given Harry’s strained relationship with Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Money is another potential flashpoint. One royal source said the couple would be “watched like hawks” for anything that looks like monetising their brand, adding there’s a feeling that kind of commercial activity goes down more easily in Montecito than it would “here”. They also warned that replicating the “Montecito playbook” in places like the Cotswolds “is not going to go down well”.

Two sources suggested the move back won’t be permanent — with one saying it could be six months, a year, or longer, and that even Harry and Meghan may not know yet. The same person floated the idea they could later try Canada or Australia, noting, “It’s one of the great things about being private individuals.”

The couple’s decision to return was described as being driven by a wish to be closer to King Charles and to help their children — Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5 — build relationships with family. Sussex sources also stressed they’re thinking “extended period”, not a forever relocation.

Royal reporter Tom Sykes called the move “a huge slap in the face” for William and said it could create “serious risks for the monarchy”, pointing to the brothers’ longstanding feud. He also raised practical questions about what happens if Charles invites Harry for Christmas with the family, or if Harry wants to attend national events like the Remembrance Day celebrations.