"When the stories started coming out about Barça's rumoured interest, I had a short conversation with Neymar with the national team," Arthur said.
"I asked him about Barcelona and he only had praise for the club and the city. He recommended Barcelona to me."
On speaking to Coutinho, Arthur added: "After I spoke with Philippe Coutino on Instagram, who agreed with everything Neymar said.
"He said that that city is wonderful and it's an excellent club to work at."
Arthur also discussed his delight at having a move to Barcelona sorted out.
GETTY
Arthur says Brazil team-mates Neymar and Philippe Coutinho told him to join Barcelona
Busquets: Neymar hasn't contacted me about coming back
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Barcelona have agreed a deal in principle with Gremio to sign Arthur this summer
"I am happy that the negotiations ended well for me and for Gremio, the club of my heart," he said.
"I wanted to help them and I feel happy about the result of the operation.
"If I have to join Barca sooner, then we will have to resolve it together.
"Right now I am 100 percent. I wouldn't have returned until I was totally recovered and I am. I'm working hard to make the [Brazil] squad for the World Cup."