Everton ace Ellis Simms ‘keen’ on Sunderland return amid ‘significant interest’
Everton striker Ellis Simms is keen on a return to Sunderland this summer if the Toffees decide to sell him, according to the Sunderland Echo.
But the newspaper noted that the striker will have “significant interest” from other Championship clubs, including Ipswich Town and Blackburn Rovers.
Simms scored seven goals in 17 Sunderland appearances during a loan spell at the Black Cats last season before he was recalled by the Toffees.
“Sunderland are obviously interested in Simms given his success last season and his future potential, and the player himself would be keen to return to a club where he made such an impact – if Everton do decide to sell,” according to the Sunderland Echo.
“The potential issue is that Simms will have significant interest from elsewhere in the division, with Middlesbrough, Blackburn Rovers and Ipswich Town already linked with a move.”
Difficult choice
It’s definitely a difficult decision for Simms, with the striker potentially able to land more game time at Everton next season, particularly if he can hit the ground running in pre-season.
His opportunities could come amid the injury struggles of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and the likely summer exit of Neal Maupay.
However, the sheer lack of attacking options should force Toffees boss Sean Dyche to strengthen in that area in the summer transfer window.
If a new striker is signed, Simms should definitely head back to the Black Cats, where he would undoubtedly be the main man in the final third.
The 22-year-old looks to have enjoyed his time in the red and white of Sunderland before, with the club clearly admirers of the young striker.
That definitely seems the likeliest destination for Simms should he leave Goodison Park this summer, but the Toffees will want a big say in the matter, and could sell the forward to the highest bidder.
In other Everton news, the Toffees want to sign a “prized asset” from Leeds United amid a likely Elland Road “exodus” this summer.