Tom Cannon could be handed a chance in the Everton first team next season.
The striker may replace Ellis Simms in the senior squad if the 22-year-old completes a move to Coventry City this week, according to the Liverpool Echo.
Simms was heavily used as a back-up striker in the second half of the previous campaign, scoring one goal in eleven matches for the Toffees.
Fabrizio Romano has now reported that he will join Coventry City for £8 million this summer, leaving Everton an attacker light.
Cannon is another youngster that is yet to feature much for the first team, having only made his senior debut in November 2022 after spending ten years with the academy.
The Republic of Ireland U21 international was sent out on loan to Preston North End in January and impressed during his time in the Championship, scoring eight goals and picking up one assist in 20 games.
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Cannon’s impression at Deepdale has led the Lilywhites to retain interest in bringing him back to the club, while Blackburn Rovers are also reportedly keen on signing him on loan.
However, Cannon is likely to be given a chance during pre-season training at Finch Farm.
Tom Cannon looks like a promising Ellis Simms alternative for Everton
Everton have done well to earn £8m for Ellis Simms’ impending departure, but they certainly don’t want to spend it all on his direct replacement.
The Toffees will be looking to bring in a couple of strikers, however Tom Cannon could be a useful back-up player to fill Simms’ void.
The 20-year-old is two years Simms’ junior and could benefit from being gently pushed into the first team picture with a couple of top goalscorers above him.
What Everton fans don’t want is for Cannon to end up starting games because of the lack of quality elsewhere, similar to Simms’ situation against Liverpool last season.