Everton could reportedly lose Mason Holgate as West Ham United have now made an enquiry over the central defender.

The Lowdown: Simms departs

As per the official website of the Goodison Park outfit, Ellis Simms has now left to join Championship side Sunderland on loan for the season, after previous temporary spells at Blackpool and Hearts.

He may not be the last departure before the window closes, as Frank Lampard looks to refine his squad ahead of the new campaign.

The Latest: Holgate enquiry

Co-writing in his latest piece for 90min, transfer expert Graeme Bailey has revealed that the Hammers have now made an enquiry over the possibility of signing Holgate.

Former Toffees manager David Moyes is thought to be keen on bringing in a player of his versatility, and so this is a deal that could accelerate over the next few weeks with the window closing on September 1.

The Verdict: Sell

With the arrival of centre-back James Tarkowski on a free transfer from Burnley, the Blues can afford to lose Holgate, and they could demand a considerable fee for him given that they would be selling him to a Premier League rival.

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He ranked as low as 16th for EFC's best performers in the top flight last term, lower than fellow centre-halves Michael Keane and Yerry Mina, while he also averaged more fouls and more times dispossessed per game than any other defender still at the club (WhoScored).

Currently earning £64,000-per-week, the Merseysiders could also do with getting his wages off of their books.