Quantcast
Home   >   Transfer News   >   Arsenal plan loan move for Hearts striker James Wilson

Arsenal plan loan move for Hearts striker James Wilson

By on February 2, 2026

Arsenal are working on a deal to sign teenage striker James Wilson from Hearts, according to reports from the BBC.

The north London club have opened talks over an initial loan move for the rest of the season. The agreement would include an option to make the transfer permanent if the player impresses in London.

Wilson is only 18 years old but has already built a strong profile in Scottish football. He plays for Hearts, who are currently leading the Scottish Premiership table this season.

Arsenal see the move as a chance to add depth and promise to their youth ranks. The teenager is not expected to join the first team setup straight away.

Instead, he would compete for a place within the club’s Under-21 side.

Wilson’s rise at Hearts

The striker has already made his mark at senior level with Hearts despite his young age. He has scored eight goals across 21 starts for the Edinburgh club since breaking into the side.

This season, he has found the net twice in 10 appearances in league and cup matches. His progress has not gone unnoticed by clubs across Britain.

Arsenal are not alone in their interest, with Tottenham Hotspur also linked with a possible move. However, it appears the Gunners are in pole position having opened talks over a deal.

The striker made his international debut for Scotland last March. He featured against Greece in a friendly match played at Hampden Park.

Arsenal view deal as long term project

Arsenal believe a loan move offers the best route for Wilson at this stage. It would allow the player to settle in England without immediate pressure.

The club also want time to judge how he adapts to a new environment. The plan is for Wilson to train within Arsenal’s youth structure while gaining match experience.

This approach fits Arsenal’s recent focus on young talent with room to grow. Wilson would face strong competition within the Under-21 side. However, the club believe this challenge would support his progress.

Regular training at a high level is seen as a key benefit of the move. For Hearts, the deal could offer value while supporting the player’s next step. A loan spell would allow them to keep a close eye on his growth.

No final agreement has been reached yet, but discussions are moving forward.