Young striker Arsenal tried to sign on deadline day has just scored a Goal of the Season contender

James Wilson has just scored one of the early Goal of the Season contenders.

Some Arsenal fans might recognise that name.

On Thursday night, the 19-year-old Hearts striker picked the ball up in the middle of the park during the Conference League play-off first leg against Rapid Vienna with little on.

James Wilson's wonderstrike, in all its glory 🚀 pic.twitter.com/MKmX2erwck

— Heart of Midlothian FC (@JamTarts) August 20, 2026

Wilson unleashed an unstoppable drive from 30 yards that gave the goalkeeper absolutely no chance.

Hearts drew 2-2 on the night, but Wilson’s goal was the moment everyone will be talking about in Scotland.

Arsenal actually nearly signed Wilson back in the January transfer window earlier this year.

On deadline day, Arsenal explored a loan move for Wilson, with the idea of bringing him into the development squad as an effective trial, with a view to a permanent move if he impressed.

In the end, it didn’t happen, as Arsenal reportedly felt he was not quite at the level or profile required.

Tottenham moved in and signed him on loan instead, but he didn’t make any appearances for the senior side.

Arsenal have resorted to other solutions to bolster their striker prospects at youth level.

Igor Tyjon is set to sign from Blackburn after a long-running saga. He’s expected to go straight into the U21s.

Vincent Joseph, another striker, has agreed terms following his departure from Liverpool, with that deal set to go through after a tribunal.

And 16-year-old Mylo Bernard has agreed to join from Crystal Palace.

The pipeline is being restocked. But watching Wilson score goals like that might sting a little regardless.