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Arsenal have opened talks to sign talented young forward James Wilson from Hearts, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Gunners had been tipped to potentially make a move on deadline day after Mikel Merino was confirmed to have suffered a broken bone injury in his foot, ruling him out for an extended period.
However, it's unclear if Wilson would be brought in as a replacement for the Spaniard or as a potential prospect for the future.
Arsenal open talks to sign James Wilson from Hearts
🚨🔴⚪️ EXCL: Arsenal open discussions with Hearts FC on Scottish talent James Wilson, 18 year old striker already capped for the National Team.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 2, 2026
Initial loan deal being discussed club to club. pic.twitter.com/v3mkgKe1P8
Arsenal's deadline day began with talks of a potential shock move for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali. While that move would have been pricy and tough to do, he would have been a great candidate to address Merino's absence. However, subsequent reports have revealed there is no truth to the claims.
That currently leaves Wilson as the Gunners' only potential incoming on deadline day after they opened discussions with the Scottish Premiership leaders.
As a striker, it doesn't seem as if the youngster will be signed as direct cover for Merino. With an initial loan discussed, he could be brought in by Arteta's side as an option for the future, which was one of their aims for the winter window.
Wilson has impressed in recent seasons since making his debut during the 2022/23 campaign. He has scored eight goals and provided three assists in 45 appearances for the Edinburgh outfit, but has found minutes hard to come by this term.
He has played just 10 times in all competitions so far this season, scoring two goals, but that shouldn't take anything away from the talent he possesses.
The striker would still be a welcome addition for Arsenal as they have been on the hunt for a new forward addition in their academy since the departure of Chido Obi to Manchester United just under two years ago.
Blackburn Rovers' Igor Tyjon has been subject to interest, with that being revived this window, while Will Wright, formerly of Salford City, was also a target before Liverpool swooped in to sign him in the summer.
Wilson would add goals to the Gunners' Hale End side and would also provide some good cover for the first team when needed. Following the recent returns of Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, Arsenal are well equipped with forwards, but there would still be chances for Wilson to make an impact within the first team.