Liverpool have an option to buy new loan signing Arthur Melo permanently next summer if he impresses this season, according to journalist James Pearce.

The Lowdown: Reds complete Arthur swoop

Jurgen Klopp was desperately in need of a new midfielder on deadline day and it ended up being a signing out of left field, with Arthur joining on loan from Juventus.

The 26-year-old hasn't quite hit the heights expected of him at both Juve and Barcelona but the hope is that he will be a different animal under Klopp at Anfield.

There was a feeling from some that the signing was a panic buy but a fresh update gives it a different complexion.

The Latest: Option to buy confirmed

Taking to Twitter late on Thursday evening, Pearce confirmed that there is an option to buy Arthur at the end of the season for around £32m:

[freshpress-quiz id=“398089"]

The Verdict: Makes move more sensible

This is so much better than simply signing Arthur on loan and then letting him leave next summer, with the Brazilian now having a major incentive to impress.

[freshpress-poll id=“399042"]

It would be harsh to say that he could just down tools otherwise but if a player knows he is leaving imminently, the same level of hunger and drive may not be there.

The hope is that Arthur comes in and reaches his potential - he is a 22-time capped Brazil international - proving to be the hero who eases Liverpool's growing injury crisis and earning a permanent move in 2023 in the process.