Everton striker Ellis Simms would smash wage structure at Hearts if permanent deal sealed
Everton are yet to decide whether they will let young striker Ellis Simms leave on a permanent deal or on loan, with several clubs interested in a transfer.
The Toffees allowed youngster Simms to leave the club to go on loan to Hearts, scoring seven goals in 21 games after arriving during the January transfer window.
His form impressed the Scottish club and they are keen to do another loan deal as a permanent deal would see them need to smash their wage structure to bring him in, according to journalist Barry Anderson via his personal Twitter account.
Replying to a fan online who called for Hearts to sign him permanently, Anderson said;
“Easier said than done. Simms’ salary would smash Hearts’ wage structure if they signed him permanently. So, unless he’s prepared to take a huge drop in money, Hearts’ best option would be a loan. Up to Everton whether they sell now or loan him out. Other clubs also interested.”
Rangers have also been linked with a move for the young academy graduate.
Decision
Simms is unlikely to be part of the Everton first-team squad in the coming season under Frank Lampard, but the decision needs to be made on if he has a future at the club at all.
At 21-years-old, Simms is now in a position where he needs to play regularly to develop or he risks stagnating and never reaching his potential.
A loan would certainly help that, but if the club don’t believe he can make the step up to the first-team level then they may as well sell him while his stock is high and get some cash in while they need it.
He currently has two years to run on a contract that is valid until 2024, so a final decision doesn’t need to be made this summer in that sense, but his value is unlikely to go up without a stellar campaign in 2022/23.
It may be the perfect time to cash in, with the club keen on moving up the Premier League table and it’s unlikely that the player will be ready to make a contribution to that any time soon. Now it’s about getting the best deal they can.