Transfer News: Bitter rivals tried to hijack Liverpool deal for Brazilian midfielder

Transfer News: Everton tried to hijack Liverpool deal for Arthur Melo

According to UOL, Merseyside rivals Everton tried to hijack Liverpool’s loan deal for talented Brazilian midfielder Arthur Melo from Juventus on deadline day but were unsuccessful in their attempt.

Liverpool made a late addition to their squad by signing Arthur from Juventus. The former Barcelona man joins the Reds on a season-long loan with the midfield orchestrator expected to help Klopp with the injury crisis that he has.

Although still not at the level of Thiago Alcantara, Arthur is a very similar player who can help Liverpool control games in midfield. Very highly rated once upon a time, the 26-year-old’s career has kind of stalled.

Arthur joined Juventus from Barcelona in 2020. In two seasons at Turin, Arthur has struggled to really establish himself. Whilst his abilities are never in question, the Brazilian’s off-field issues and injuries have plagued him.

The 26-year-old played 31 times for the Old Lady last season failing to score and providing just one assist across all competitions. Arthur is capable of much better and these numbers are underwhelming.

Anyone who has seen Arthur play knows that the Brazilian’s strength is his ball retention. It is almost impossible to get the ball off him and this will help control the play for Liverpool when it needs to be done.

Whilst I am still not convinced if Arthur is the kind of player who will suit Liverpool, we have to give Jurgen Klopp the benefit of doubt. If he thinks the Brazilian will suit his system, he is likely to know better.

For a player who was once likened to Xavi Hernandez by one of the best players in the world, Lionel Messi, Arthur Melo is yet to show us that kind of consistency. If he can do it for the Reds, he will be a great addition for Klopp.

More Liverpool News

• Steven Gerrard talks about the Douglas Luiz situation amid Liverpool links
• Rio Ferdinand identifies Fabinho as the reason for Newcastle’s opening goal against Liverpool
• Arthur Melo and Liverpool. How will this transfer turn out?

Arthur is only here on loan. It’s a low-risk option that could give us high rewards. It remains to be seen how the Brazilian’s career pans out, in a Reds shirt.