Arsenal are on the verge of signing a young talent with a bright future in James Wilson, if Andy Robertson's previous assessment is anything to go off. As things stand, there has been very little business done at the Emirates Stadium in the January window.

But as deadline day lands, Mikel Arteta could be on the verge of at least making improvements to the club's academy squad. Fabrizio Romano reports that the Gunners have opened talks with Hearts over a loan move for Wilson.

While the 18-year-old has struggled to make it into Hearts' first-team this season, an impressive tally of eight senior goals in 45 appearances has seemingly caught the eye of the Arsenal. He also has a senior cap for the Scotland national team.

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In terms of experience, it is thought that the striker is leagues ahead of similar talents in his age group, with Arsenal reportedly considering a deal which would allow them to monitor his progress within their youth setup before making a decision on a permanent move.

Under contract until 2027, this summer could come as Hearts' last chance to sell him for a significant sum - or risk losing him on a free come the end of next season.

Not only does Wilson – who would be part of the academy should he come in – fit Arsenal's model of recruiting and investing heavily in young up-and-coming players, but national team-mate Robertson has also given a glowing review of his talent in the past.

Speaking last summer, the Liverpool left-back said: "Max Johnston has come on so much in the time since his first camp to now, he looks a hell of a lot more composed. Lennon Miller was good in march but has been excellent this week in training.

"Now he looks comfortable and happy. James Wilson as well, has been here a couple of times now, he keeps growing and getting better.

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"Me, Scott McTominay, John McGinn, we are not going to be around forever, there will come a time where we need to hang the boots up. That’s still a bit away but then it is up to the young lads. It’ll soon be their squad and maybe in 10 years I can be watching them at a World Cup."

It comes as Wilson may not be the only player that Arsenal are eyeing for a deadline day swoop, given they may require reinforcements in their engine room following a devastating injury to Mikel Merino. The Spaniard requires surgery on his foot, which will keep him sidelined for potentially the rest of the season.

A statement from the club read: "Mikel will have surgery in the coming days and will then begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme. Mikel is expected to be out of action for an extended period, with the aim of returning to full training before the end of the season.

"Everyone is fully focused on supporting Mikel to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible."

As a result, reports suggest that the Gunners could scour the loan market as a short-term solution to Merino's absence. The 29-year-old has been a key cog in Arsenal's success this season, racking up four goals and three assists from 21 appearances.

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