Sources: Middlesbrough join chase for Everton striker with Ellis Simms destined for Championship move
Middlesbrough are the latest Championship club to join the chase for Everton striker Ellis Simms, TEAMtalk understands.
Simms is a target for a number of clubs in this summer’s transfer window with the likes of Sunderland, Ipswich and Stoke all making enquiries for the former Manchester City youngster.
Now, Middlesbrough are ready to battle their Championship rivals for Simms’ signature as they look to bolster their attacking options for next season.
Boro are wary of losing last season’s top scorer Chuba Akpom with a number of clubs weighing up moves for the former Arsenal man.
Akpom is entering the final year of his contract at the Riverside, while Cameron Archer has returned to Aston Villa following his loan spell at Boro.
Sunderland are keen to bring Simms back to the Stadium of Light after he enjoyed a successful loan spell on Wearside in the first half of last season, while Ipswich and Stoke are both looking to add more firepower to their sides.
The 22-year-old scored seven goals in 17 appearances for Sunderland in the Championship before being recalled by Everton in the January transfer window.
Simms started just two games following his return to Goodison Park, scoring a crucial equaliser against Chelsea in Everton’s successful fight against relegation.
Simms is entering the final year of his contract at Everton and Toffees boss Sean Dyche could be willing to sell Simms to boost his own transfer kitty with the club in the market for two new strikers this summer.