The Netherlands international, signed on a five-and-a-half year deal, is part of greater transfer strategy for the Merseysiders
Towards the end of 2016-17, as Liverpool pushed for a top-four finish to crystallise their advancement under Jurgen Klopp, the sketch of their recruitment strategy for the new campaign was becoming apparent.
Their blinding, blitzing start to the season had underlined the electrifying potential of the team, but their stretched-out stumble at the turn of this year solidified the thinking that pedigreed reinforcements were required.
There were four primary objectives: reducing the dependence on Sadio Mane by adding another speedy attacker that could terrorise defences and make a difference in the final third; elevating the dynamism in midfield; ensuring there was greater competition in the squad; and bringing in an aerially dominant, accomplished centre-back.