Everton look set to allow Ellis Simms to leave on loan ahead of the new season.
The striker, who signed a new contract with the Blues in November, enjoyed an impressive spell with Hearts during the second half of the last campaign. The management team at Finch Farm is understood to be considering another loan spell for the 21-year-old as he continues his development.
A number of clubs are chasing Simms with Sunderland, newly promoted to the Championship, reportedly on the verge of agreeing a deal. Blackpool and Hearts are among those understood to have been interested over the summer.