Sunderland will monitor the situation of former loanee Ellis Simms with a view to a summer move.

The youngster, who was on loan at the Stadium of Light for the first half of last season, is wanted by the Black Cats.

Simms returned to Everton in January and played 11 games for the club, scoring a couple of vital goals in their battle against relegation.

Per The Northern Echo, Sunderland will go back in for Simms if he becomes available.

However, the youngster may be one who manager Sean Dyche decides to keep as part of his Toffees squad for next season.

Everton have limited financial prowess at present, meaning that big money signings are unlikely to happen.