(Football news) Liverpool have reached an agreement with Italian club Juventus for the transfer of Arthur Melo on a loan deal with an option to make it permanent for £32m. With Thiago Alcantara, Jordan Henderson, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain currently sidelined due to injuries, the Reds have something of an injury crisis and Arthur is what can be considered a low risk signing for the club. According to the statement released by Juventus, Liverpool have paid £3.9m as a loan fee and have the option to buy the player for £32.3m. 

Speaking after his transfer, Arthur said “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." The Brazil international began his career at Gremio before joining Barcelona in 2018, scoring four goals in 72 appearances over two seasons. He joined Juventus in June 2020, signing a five year contract and made a total of 63 appearances. Arthur was also a part of Brazil's Copa America-winning squad in 2019.

Question marks remain about Arthur’s transfer to Liverpool, especially considering his injury record and whether he will be able to adapt to the pace, intensity and the physicality of the Premier League. Liverpool’s style of play demands extremely high fitness levels and the physical prowess, qualities that Arthur isn’t known for or showcased in his career so far. While Liverpool need an immediate starter in midfield, Arthur’s fitness is also a doubt as the player hasn’t played for Juventus at all this season with his last competitive match coming four months ago when Juventus lost to Inter Milan in the Coppa Italia final. 

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