If a report from Chronicle Live is believed to be true, Newcastle United are keeping close tabs on Hearts’ teenage sensation James Wilson ahead of a potential summer swoop. The Magpies have scouted him extensively over the past few months and could now rival Celtic and Rangers, who are also circling like vultures to snap up the youngster.
The 18-year-old striking sensation progressed through the Jambos’ youth ranks before bursting into the Premiership setup towards the end of the previous campaign. Despite making three first-team appearances last term as a substitute, 2024-25 has been Wilson’s breakthrough season, with 6 goals and 2 assists [stats via Transfermarket] in 28 first-team outings.
The young centre-forward featured once for the Northern Ireland U-17s in 2022 but switched his allegiance to Scotland later that year. Not only did Wilson captain them at U-16s and U-17s, but he also made his senior debut recently for the Tartan Army against Greece. He is now a regular for Hearts high up the pitch, and the promises shown while spearheading the attack must have drawn the attention of the Toon Army south of the border.
Besides clinching the EFL Cup, their first domestic silverware in 70 years, defeating Liverpool, Newcastle United are heading towards securing a Champions League berth. The lion’s share of their success goes to Alexander Isak’s incredible scoring form, but the gaffer Eddie Howe must snap up someone who could challenge and cover the Swedish ace from next season onwards.
Why Newcastle United Should Secure His Services
With Callum Wilson’s contract set to expire this season, William Osula should get more minutes as Isak’s understudy. However, they still need someone to replace Wilson in attack, and James, given his exquisite stint at Tynecastle, could ply his trade to Tyneside as Callum’s successor.
Although the rising ‘number 9’ is valued at around £1m, Hearts could demand more for their prized asset. They have him contracted until the summer of 2027, with an option to extend it for one more year, and the growing interest would allow them to maximise the profit from Wilson’s sale.
Howe is open to nurturing young talents, as revealed in an interview earlier this season.
“Making stars is something that the club has had a vision of doing ever since I arrived. I know there was a big push to sign some talented younger players at the Academy, and the guys in the other building can really help and flourish, nurtured into the first team that has always been part of the plan.”
The PSR could restrict their spending spree in the summer window, but a player of Wilson’s talent could save them millions in the transfer market if utilised with patience and perseverance.
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