Everton boss Roberto Martinez has confirmed the club are close to signing striker Lacina Traore on loan from Monaco, reports Sky Sports.

The Ivory Coast international only joined Monaco from Anzhi Makhachkala this month, but is set to complete his switch to the Premier League in order to gain further first team experience.

West Ham had previously been linked with a move for the 6ft 8in forward, but it looks as though Everton have won the race for his signature.

Martinez has been looking to bring in attacking reinforcements this month, after losing Arouna Kone to injury, and allowing Nikica Jelavic to join Hull City.

"Lacina is a player who I really like and is someone who would fit in really well in the role we want the player to come in," said Martinez after a medical allayed any concerns over a hamstring injury.

"There are a couple of hurdles that we need to get over; the work permit is something we need to look into.

"Every work permit is difficult. We have a very strong case of showing why we need Lacina with us.

"He is a very talented footballer. He is only 23 and has already had a couple of moves (totalling) nearly £30million but every work permit is a difficult one and we will try our best."

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