Arsenal have officially announced the transfer of Willian on a free transfer ahead of the 2020/21 campaign.
The Brazil international joins the north London side on a three-year deal as a free agent after leaving Chelsea earlier this week.
Kia Joorabchian earlier confirmed an announcement over the player’s next move was imminent after reports suggested the winger had undergone medical with Mikel Arteta’s side over the weekend.
The 32-year-old’s acquisition brings a lot of experience to a youthful Arsenal side who are looking to rebuild after finishing the Premier League season in the eight position.
Willian has made over 600 appearances in his his career as a footballer, having started his journey 13 seasons ago at Brazilian side Corinthians.
The Brazilian’s seven years at Chelsea saw him win the Premier League, Europa League and FA Cup titles while scoring 63 goals in 339 appearances. He also racked up 56 assists in that time.
“I believe he’s a player that can really make a difference for us,” Arteta said. “We have been monitoring him for the past few months, we had a clear intention to strengthen in the attacking midfielder and the winger positions [and] he is a player that gives us a lot of versatility, he can play in three or four different positions. He has the experience of everything in the football world but to still have the ambition to come here and contribute to bring the club where it belongs. I have been really impressed with all the talks I have had with him and how much he wanted to come.”
Technical director Edu, who happens to know Willian from the their time in the Brazil national team was on hand to heap praise on the winger.
Edu said: “I know him very well, since a long time ago because we’ve been working together for the Brazilian national team and of course I was following him because he played for another club. He has a lot of fantastic attributes as a person, as a football player of course, his character. I’m 100 per cent sure that everybody in the dressing room, the fans, myself and Mikel will enjoy having Willian in our side.”
Willian is also expected to don the No.12 shirt for the Gunners, with deal subject to the completion of regulatory processes.
WATCH: Willian Arsenal First Interview
