Rangers have been linked with a move for ex-Hearts striker and current Everton forward Ellis Simms but any move could depend on how the Toffees react to the £60m departure of Richarlison.
Several sources have now mentioned Rangers alongside striker Ellis Simms, who impressed during a loan stint with Hearts last season.
The 4th Official were the first to mention Rangers alongside the 21-year-old powerhouse, who netted five goals in the Scottish Premiership last season despite only moving to Edinburgh in January.
Claiming Hearts are also interested in getting the striker back on loan, Simms would represent an interesting third choice option at Ibrox.
However the same outlet would later claim that Rangers have their eye on other targets at present, suggesting any move may depend on the outcome of other pursuits.
Rangers are currently engaged in a high-profile, frustratingly public pursuit of Croatian international PAOK striker Antonio Colak, and will be hoping their blushes are spared in the Greek side’s pursuit of a replacement forward.
Both the suggestion Rangers are monitoring Ellis Simms and that the Ibrox side are looking elsewhere first has been backed up by Scotsman journalist Barry Anderson.
Anderson claims that both Rangers and Hearts have a potential Simms move on the back burner as they look elsewhere but that there is genuine interest in the player.
Ellis Simms Everton future unsure amid Rangers links
Whether Simms leaves Goodison on a permanent deal or loan move comes down to Everton, who may even keep Ellis around until the dust settles on Richarlison’s £60m exit to Tottenham Hotspur.
As things stand Frank Lampard’s side have limited option in attack and Ellis Simms may be required at Goodison Park next season amid a dearth of options.
The player himself certainly seems focused on life at Everton for the time being as he shared an image of himself training in the club’s kit ahead of the new season.
Ellis Simms came through the youth ranks at Everton after spending time with Blackburn Rovers and Man City and has previously had a successful loan spell with Blackpool, where he netted 10 goals in 24 games.
The striker has made one appearances for the Toffees, starting in a 1-1 Premier League draw with Chelsea in December 2021 amid injuries to other first-team players.
Meanwhile, one Rangers attacker is being tipped to break into the top team at Ibrox this season after a series of disappointing loan spells.
