The video will start in 8 Cancel

Stay in control of the latest Blues news with our Everton newsletter Sign up now Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Young forward Ellis Simms has signed his first professional contract with Everton, David Unsworth confirmed this week.

Simms has been a shining light for Paul Tait's under-18 side this season and netted an incredible 37 goals in 25 games at youth level as well as being handed his debut for Unsworth's title-winning under-23s, going on to make three appearances.

The Oldham-born starlet, who joined Everton as a 16-year-old, can represent England, Jamaica or Poland at international level.

He has recently been linked with a move to Germany as speculation around his future intensified after a superb season in front of goal but the Blues have acted quickly to land his signature.

Speaking to the ECHO on Wednesday after winning the Premier League Cup, Unsworth said: "There’s a number of under-18 players in my thoughts [for the new season].

"Joe Anderson, Ellis Simms and Einar Iversen have got contracts and they will step into the under-23 squad next year."

Anderson is an 18-year-old left-back, while Iversen, 17, previously played for Stord and Brann in his homeland of Norway before arriving at Goodison Park two seasons ago.

He has represented Norway at under-15 level.

The trio finished third in the U18 Premier League this season, seven points behind eventual champions Derby County.