Sunderland are poised to win the race to sign Everton striker Ellis Simms, according to the latest reports. The Blackpool Gazette claims the Seasiders have failed in their attempt to re-sign their former loan star despite reaching an agreement with parent club Everton.
However, the Black Cats have matched the terms of Michael Appleton's side and the 21-year-old looks set to join Sunderland. Blackpool are understood to have made a considerable push to re-sign Simms, who scored ten goals in 24 appearances for the Tangerines in 2021.
The report claims six clubs have been in contact with Everton in an attempt to try and sign the Toffees striker, who was an unused substitute for Frank Lampard's side in their win at Bloomfield Road last weekend. Simms became a fan favourite during his time on the Fylde coast but a groin injury would curtail his time on loan with the then League One side.
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He missed the League One play-off final win over Lincoln City, before returning to Goodison Park. Alex Neil's side know they need some reinforcements in forward areas of the pitch, with Ross Stewart the only striker in the first team.
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