Simms is a player that Sunderland fans know and like. He spent time on loan last season before being recalled by parent club Everton, though a return to Wearside has been touted ahead of this summer.

Sunderland are said to be keeping tabs on his situation but recent reports (The Sun print edition, via TWTD) have suggested that Ipswich Town have made the first move to sign him this summer, with the Tractor Boys having apparently tabled a £3.5million bid.

Southampton midfielder Smallbone is also said to be of interest to the Black Cats. A recent report from FootballTransfers revealed that Sunderland, as well as Hull City and Stoke City – who had Smallbone on loan last season – are all keen, but that the trio face competition from Bournemouth and two other, unnamed Premier League clubs.