Arsenal have chosen Willian over Philippe Coutinho, according to the UK Mirror.

The Gunners are now expected to seal a deal for the Chelsea midfielder by next week.

Mikel Arteta is keen to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season and build on the recent success of winning the FA Cup.

Arsenal were offered the opportunity to sign Coutinho, with Barcelona desperate to get the former Liverpool playmaker off their books.

But Arteta has snubbed the opportunity to sign Coutinho, even on loan for the season, in favour of landing Willian.

Willian, 31, is the cheaper option of the two players and Arteta is very keen to work with him.

The Gunners technical director Edu has a good relationship with Kia Joorabchian, who represents both Willian and Coutinho and is an Arsenal fan himself.