Tottenham set to beat Arsenal to signing of teenager Wilson

Hearts forward James WilsonGetty Images

Sami Mokbel

Senior football correspondent

Tottenham are set to sign teenage striker James Wilson on loan from Hearts.

Arsenal were in talks with the Scottish Premiership leaders over a move for the 18-year-old - in a deal that was effectively a six-month trial.

But Wilson has agreed to join Spurs' Under-21s side in a deal that includes an option to buy at the end of the season.

The 18-year-old has scored eight goals in 45 appearances for the Edinburgh club and has already been capped by Scotland.

Earlier this week, Hearts manager Derek McInnes admitted the Premier League clubs' interest in the forward had taken him by surprise.

"He's been restricted with minutes this season. It's tough to get into the first team at this age," McInnes told Sky Sports Scotland.

"Would we see the benefit of a loan? Yes, to get some minutes. But this one was a wee bit left-field."