Coventry City have made a significant signing in the form of Everton striker Ellis Simms. The 22-year-old has joined the Sky Blues for an initial fee of £3.5 million, which could potentially rise to £5 million depending on his performances and goal-scoring record. Simms’ arrival comes as Coventry prepare to sell Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres to Sporting Lisbon for a reported fee of £20.5 million.
Simms, who stands at an impressive 6ft 3in, is seen as a ready-made replacement for Gyokeres due to his pace and power. The young striker had a successful loan spell at Sunderland last season, where he scored seven goals in 14 starts. His performances caught the attention of Everton, who recalled him in January to bolster their forward options. Simms went on to make 11 Premier League appearances for the Toffees, scoring a memorable last-minute equalizer against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Coventry manager Mark Robins expressed his delight at securing Simms’ signature, describing him as a “strong, powerful striker” with pace and finishing ability. Robins believes Simms will be a key signing for the club and is eager to work with him to further develop his talent.
The signing of Simms could potentially make him Coventry’s record signing if the club manages to secure promotion to the Premier League. In that scenario, Simms’ fee could rise to £8 million, surpassing the £6.5 million paid for Craig Bellamy in the past.
Coventry’s decision to sell Gyokeres to Sporting Lisbon comes after the Swedish striker attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including Burnley, Brentford, Wolves, Leicester City, and Leeds. However, Gyokeres had his heart set on a move to the Portuguese giants and is expected to complete his transfer over the weekend.
Gyokeres had an impressive season in the Championship, scoring 22 goals for Coventry. His departure will undoubtedly leave a void in the team’s attacking lineup, but the arrival of Simms provides hope for a seamless transition. Simms’ attributes, including his strength, pace, and finishing ability, make him a suitable replacement for Gyokeres.
Coventry City will likely have a significant sum of money at their disposal following Gyokeres’ sale. This financial boost could potentially be used to strengthen other areas of the squad or invest in further talent to enhance their chances of promotion.
The signing of Simms represents Coventry’s ambition to compete at a higher level and build a squad capable of challenging in the Premier League. With his youth and potential, Simms has the opportunity to make a significant impact at the club and contribute to their future success.
In conclusion, Coventry City’s acquisition of Ellis Simms from Everton is a significant move for the club. The young striker’s attributes make him an ideal replacement for Viktor Gyokeres, who is set to join Sporting Lisbon. Simms’ arrival provides hope for Coventry’s future success, and the potential for his fee to rise to £8 million demonstrates the club’s ambition. With his strength, pace, and finishing ability, Simms has the potential to become a key player for Coventry as they strive for promotion to the Premier League.