And it seems the Gunners manager got his wish, as the Brazilian has reportedly undergone his medical in north London, after confirming on Sunday he is leaving Chelsea.
Arteta is keen to strengthen his Arsenal side this summer but must do so with limited funds.
The club have been linked with such stars as Philippe Coutinho, Thomas Partey and Willian in recent months, with the latter the priority.
According to The Telegraph, Arteta made a special request to the Arsenal board, and asked them to 'specifically' sign Willian, despite his age.
The Spaniard is said to be a big fan of the 32-year-old, and strongly believes that he will improve his Arsenal team next season.
The Evening Standard has reported this Monday that Willian has now completed his medical at Arsenal, and will soon pen a three year deal worth £150,000-a-week.
Willian said goodbye to Chelsea after seven years in a statement on Sunday.
It read: "They were seven wonderful years.
"In August 2013 when I received the offer from Chelsea, I was convinced that this was where I had to play. Today I am certain that it was the best of decisions. There were no many happy times, some sad, there were trophies and it was always very intense.
"Yet, beyond the trophies, I learnt a lot about myself. I developed a great deal, becoming a better player and a better person. With each training session, with each game, with every minute spent in the dressing room, I was always learning.
"I am really grateful to the Chelsea fans for the affectionate way they welcomed me at Stamford Bridge and their support throughout my time at the club.
"There was also criticism, which is normal, what is important though is that both the affection and criticism drove me to always give my all in every training session, every game, to be constantly improving until my very last minute in a Chelsea shirt!
The time has now come to move on. I am certainly going to miss my team-mates. I will miss all the staff at the club who've always treated me like a son and I will miss the fans.
"I leave with my head held high, safe in the knowledge that I won things here and always did my best in a Chelsea shirt!
"My heartfelt thanks go out to all of you and God bless you! Borges da Silva."
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