Arthur was the late arrival at Anfield in the summer as Jurgen Klopp faced up to Liverpool's midfield reality.
A host of injuries that threatened to undermine their season with key personnel missing effectively forced the club's hand. The Brazilian, who has proven his credentials at Barcelona and Juventus, is now playing for another European giant - albeit on loan.
Arthur will spend the season on Merseyside, but once everyone is fit he will be battling for a start with established stars like Jordan Henderson, Thiago and Fabinho. There have already been contrasting reports around how the new recruit is settling in, with some suggesting the loan could be cut short.
Others believe that to be false with Liverpool coaches in fact impressed with how Arthur has adapted to their philosophy. One way or another though, the decision to take the midfielder on loan, rather than pursue a permanent signing ensures the club are not tied in.
Arthur himself is convinced that a switch to Anfield will prove a shrewd move, saying upon his arrival: “We talked a lot, and our ideas and visions were a good fit so I’m sure it was the right choice. I’m really happy and highly motivated to continue living my dream on the pitch and giving my all in a Liverpool shirt.”
A parting of ways is due to occur once this season ends, which allows Liverpool to pursue other targets without the need to first offload players and get wages off the books. That was not the case going back 18 months when a defensive injury crisis hit and the Reds went after reinforcements.
Ben Davies was signed from Preston in January 2021 but never made a single appearance in any competition during his time on Merseyside. Eventually his spell ended this summer when he moved north of the border to join Rangers. Davies did cite his desire to take on challenges, even if they didn't necessarily work out as planned.
He said: “All my career, I’ve looked to take different opportunities. Going out on loan, taking moves when they've come about and not just staying in my comfort zone. That’s going to help me going forward. I think this is the best place possible for me. The expectation, levels and standards that the club has are exceptional and that can only bring the best out of me."
Liverpool's recruitment has long been hailed, although this summer it has been called into question, yet they've remained loyal to their ways of working. Jude Bellingham is thought to be on their radar next summer and a loan swoop for Arthur addresses this year's problems but leaves their options open.
