Arsenal have signed Willian Borges da Silva on a free transfer following the winger’s exit from Chelsea.

The Brazilian has signed a three-year deal worth around £100,000-a-week to become Mikel Arteta’s first summer signing.

The 32-year-old’s preference was to remain at Stamford Bridge, but long negotiations over a new contract broke down as Willian was looking for a three-year commitment and Chelsea was only willing to offer two.

Willian won two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, a League Cup and the Europa League during his  seven years with  Chelsea.

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

“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.”