Ellis Simms’ departure for Coventry is the first significant exit from Everton beyond those whose contracts expired at the end of last month.
The 22-year-old will return to the Championship, where he scored seven goals for Sunderland before his loan spell was cut short at the turn of the year. Sunderland were among the clubs interested in securing the striker’s services but his move to the Midlands was secured after Coventry reached a breakthrough in talks this week.
The move was publicly confirmed on Friday night for an undisclosed fee, though it is understood the deal could reach a value of up to £8m.
