Willian joins Arsenal on a free transfer with former Chelsea star signing a three-year deal

Willian has swapped west London for north London after finally completing his free transfer to Arsenal.

The Brazilian’s protracted switch was announced on Friday morning, with the winger signing a three-year deal at the club.

Willian joins Arsenal after seven years at their bitter rivals Chelsea.

He had been offered a new deal to stay at Stamford Bridge but the Blues were unwilling to match the terms on offer by his new side.

According to reports, the 32-year-old – who will the wear No 12 – will earn £220,000-a-week at the Emirates.

‘I believe he’s a player that can really make a difference for us,’ said Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.

‘We had a clear intention to strengthen in the attacking midfielder and the winger positions.

‘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 still has 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.’

Willian made 339 appearances for Chelsea after signing from Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala for £30m in 2013.

He won five major honours with the Blues, including two Premier League titles and the Europa League, and was voted the club’s players’ player of the year twice.