Deficit or maintenance

Hi guys, I’m 153cm and 43kg but definitely what you would call skinny fat. I’m looking to convert my fat into muscle for a leaner/tighter look, with an extra focus on my arms. For clarification, I’m NOT trying to lose weight, just trying to change its distribution to look small. I know body recomp is the way to go - high protein diet and lifting. but everywhere I look people say conflicting things regarding whether you should eat at a slight deficit or at maintenance. Also, as a beginner I’d love to have a video I could follow for an arms routine if anyone can vouch for one that’s worked for them