Ross Stewart has suffered a partial tear in his Achilles and is expected to be out for the rest of the season.
The Black Cats have signed Leeds United striker Joe Gelhardt on loan in the ongoing window, but they want to further strengthen their attacking line up in the absence of Stewart.
Simms played the first half of the season on loan at Sunderland before getting recalled by Everton in January.
The Black Cats are hoping to convince the Toffees to send the 22-year-old back on loan for the rest of the season.
Everton have struggled to score goals this season and the Toffees’ new boss Sean Dyche wants to keep Simms at the club until they are able to reinforce the attacking department on deadline day.
However, Sunderland have not given up on their pursuit of Simms and will keep in communication with Everton to sign him if the opportunity arises.
If Everton successfully add attackers, they could open up to Simms going.
Simms scored seven times in his 17 league outings for Sunderland this season, providing two assists.
