Arsenal are keen to strengthen their underperforming U21 set-up before the transfer window closes at 7pm tonight
11:24, 02 Feb 2026
James Wilson
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Arsenal are in talks to sign Hearts striker James Wilson on an initial loan
Arsenal are eyeing two big Scottish talents on transfer deadline day as they seek to bolster their youth ranks.
The Gunners are looking to add some extra firepower to their U21 set-up as Arsenal are currently floundering in 15th place in the Premier League 2.
They have therefore opened talks with Hearts over the possible capture of 18-year-old striker James Wilson.
Wilson has already featured for the Scotland national team and is being tipped for a big future in the game due to his goal-scoring ability.
It's unlikely he would enter first-team reckoning if he was to sign for Arsenal but he would receive regular minutes for the U21s.
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Hearts are open to a loan even though captain Lawrence Shankland is currently sidelined through injury.
Arsenal's interest has intensified after they saw a fresh bid knocked back by Blackburn Rovers for Igor Tyjon.
The England U18 international has been on the Gunners' radar since last summer when they failed with two bids worth over £1million. They recently launched a new offer worth £1million as Tyjon's scholarship deal expires in the summer.
Rovers, however, snubbed the approach as it fell below their valuation and Arsenal are anticipating that a number of clubs will rival them for Tyjon's signature in the summer.
Atalanta and Monza from Italy are tracking while a number of top-flight Polish sides are also in contention for his signature.
Tyjon's parents are Polish and he's also represented Poland at U16 level.
Igor Tyjon
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Arsenal have been keen to sign Igor Tyjon from Blackburn Rovers
Other top English clubs like Manchester United and Aston Villa have also been credited with an interest.
Meanwhile, St Mirren attacking midfielder Evan Mooney is also on Arsenal's radar.
Mooney has made 18 appearances in all competitions so far this season, scoring two goals.
He can also operate out wide and Arsenal are believed to have made inroads on a deal that could be worth an initial £400k plus £400k in bonuses.
St Mirren would also likely demand a sell-on clause as part of the deal. The energetic prospect has already made 23 first-team appearances for St Mirren.
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