Sunderland are one of three clubs to express interest in Everton’s Ellis Simms.
That’s according to Sky Sports’ Alan Myers, who has reported that Sunderland and Ipswich Town are likely to be two of the clubs, alongside a third unknown side.
He has claimed that no bid has been accepted for Simms, however a decision is expected in the next few days.
Simms has been a target for the Black Cats since he was recalled from his loan spell at the Stadium of Light in January.
The striker netted seven goals in the first half of the campaign, but his surprising exit left them with only Joe Gelhardt up front.
Various reports previously claimed that Simms would be available for around £3.5 million this summer, but is unclear whether Tony Mowbray’s side would be willing to cough up the seven-figure fee for his signature.
The Sunderland boss is certainly very fond of the Everton forward, stating in a press conference back in January that a return to Wearside would be ‘huge’.
It may also depend on whether Everton can bring in a replacement for Simms, who is one of only three strikers currently at Goodison Park.
Is Ellis Simms worth the £3.5m to Sunderland?
Gone are the days of Sunderland splashing £10 million on mediocrity – the Black Cats are now very careful with their spending.
While there is a clear determination to bolster their frontline this summer, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus won’t want to overspend and Simms won’t be returning to Wearside if he is too costly.
However, the £3.5 million certainly seems worth it in today’s market.
The striker has years ahead of him to improve and he clearly works very well alongside Ross Stewart, while his relationship with the fans is unmatched.
Sunderland definitely don’t want to get into a bidding war over Simms, but they shouldn’t turn their nose up at the prospect of opening their wallet.
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