Tottenham set to rival Arsenal for Scottish wonderkid

Cameron Smith

• 2 Feb 2026 10:01 CST
• 5 min read

Nieuws

Tottenham Hotspur have opened talks with Hearts over an initial loan deal for James Wilson as they look to hijack Arsenal’s bid for the 18-year-old.

Thomas Frank’s side have already signed Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher and Santo defender Souza so far this window, and they are keen to agree a late loan move for the Hearts striker.

That is according to Sky Sports journalist Michael Bridge, who told Sky Sports News: “Spurs have entered the race to sign James Wilson from Hearts.

“This would be an initial loan with an option to buy [and] the 18-year-old striker would be part of the U21 squad if the deal goes through.”

Arsenal are also locked in negotiations over a last-minute Deadline Day deal, with the Gunners eager to bring him to the Emirates Stadium on loan before a potential permanent move this summer.

Wilson has scored eight goals in 45 first-team matches for Hearts, although he has only started one game in the Scottish Premiership so far this season and a move to north London appears to be on the cards before the winter transfer window slams shut this evening.

James Wilson transfer battle

Despite Tottenham’s interest in Wilson, Arsenal remain strong contenders to sign the teenager amid their pursuit of a new striker to bolster their academy ranks.

The Gunners are yet to replace Chido Obi following his move to Manchester United in 2024 and they have opened discussions over a deal for Wilson after appearing to accept defeat in their pursuit of Blackburn Rovers striker Igor Tyjon.

The 17-year-old has rejected a contract extension offer from Ewood Park, but he is now expected to leave the club as a free agent this summer after Arsenal saw an improved offer worth over €1 million turned down by the Championship side.

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