Chelsea are set to step up their interest in West Ham star Michail Antonio, with Blues manager Antonio Conte keen to bring the flying winger to Stamford Bridge, according to reports from The Mirror.

Antonio has excelled for the Hammers since his £7million move from Nottingham Forest in the summer of 2015, scoring 17 goals in just under 60 appearances for the club. Eight of those have come this season already, making him the club's top scorer in all competitions.

Another fairy tale Jamie-Vardy-esque story of rags to riches, Antonio started his career at non-league side Tooting and Mitcham United, before earning himself a move to Reading. The now 26-year-old then signed for Sheffield Wednesday in 2012, spending two years at the club before leaving for Nottingham Forest and again West Ham a year later.

Such has been his rise to prominence, however, that Premier League leaders Chelsea are now interested in the Hammers' key man. A move to one of England's biggest clubs would be remarkable, considering Antonio was still playing non-league football seven years ago.

Football FanCast reckon the potential move would be perfect for both the Blues and Antonio. Here are three reasons why.

Perfect Fit

Chelsea have been in fine form this season. Despite losing their most recent league fixture to rivals Tottenham Hotspur, the Blues had previously gone on a run of thirteen straight victories in the Premier League, which equalled the record set by Arsenal during their famous 'Invincibles' campaign.

Due to their good form, boss Antonio Conte has had little need to rotate his strongest starting XI. However, as the season goes on and legs start to get tired, he will certainly need some backup options.

One of the few positions where he doesn't have that is wing-back, usually occupied by Victor Moses and Marcos Alonso in his lauded 3-4-3 formation. Antonio is capable of playing on either side, and having played as both a winger and a full-back during his time at West Ham, he would be the perfect fit.

Chelsea fans also love a player who puts every ounce of effort into the game and looks like he is thoroughly enjoying himself out on the pitch. Antonio is the personification of that - the fans would adore him.

Healthy Competition

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By no means would the signing of Michail Antonio be one that solely provides back-up for Chelsea's main starters should one become injured or fatigued. It would also create healthy competition in the squad to help avoid complacency come the latter stages of the season.

As mentioned, Chelsea lack options in the wing-back positions, so Antonio would be just what both Moses and Alonso need to keep them on their toes and fighting for their starting berths for the remainder of the campaign. Given their form at the minute, the pair could be forgiven for thinking their place in the starting XI is cemented. Antonio's arrival could make them think otherwise.

Versatility

One of the things I love most about Antonio is his versatility. During his time in East London, he has played as a full-back and a winger on both the left and right sides of the pitch, as well as doing a job up front when required.

Players like that are hard to come by and should be treasured. Conte would cherish a player of his ability and flexibility as he would be able to provide options out wide, at the back, as the striker and one of the wide forwards either side of Diego Costa.

Conte doesn't appear too convinced by summer signing Michy Batshuayi, but may have more faith in the versatile West Ham man when the Spain international is injured or suspended.