According to reports in The Sun, West Ham United are battling Premier League rivals Crystal Palace for the signing of Bologna left-back Adam Masina this month.

The Sun says that both clubs are looking to strengthen in that position before the window slams shut on January 31, with the 24-year-old – who started his career as a striker before being converted an attacking full-back – said to be keen on a move to England after three-and-a-half seasons in the Italian side's first team.

The report adds that both of the London teams have already submitted bids for the Moroccan-born star, who is valued at £15m by the Serie A outfit, with Irons manager David Moyes believing the former Italy U21 international can provide competition for Aaron Cresswell and Arthur Masuaku.

Meanwhile, Everton have already signed Cenk Tosun from Besiktas and Theo Walcott from Arsenal this month to boost their attacking options this month, but Toffees boss Sam Allardyce might not have finished his business there.

The 63-year-old may also look to boost his backline and bringing Masina to Goodison Park could prove to be a shrewd move.

Here are three reasons Everton must hijack West Ham's bid to sign the defender…

They need a new left-back

With Cuco Martina filling in at left-back – and not really impressing the Everton supporters – in the absence of the injured Leighton Baines, who will turn 34 this year, in recent months, it is clear to see that the Toffees need to find a long-term solution to their left-back issue.

Masina has proven himself to be one of the best in his position in Serie A for Bologna in the last couple of seasons, and he could prove to be a good addition for the Merseyside outfit this month.

His qualities

According to WhoScored.com, Masina's main strengths are his concentration, his ability to win aerial duels and making interceptions and blocks.

In 18 Serie A appearances this season, the 24-year-old has won 44 tackles, made 26 interceptions, 33 blocks and 55 clearances, while he has used his 6ft 3in frame to win 52 of the 79 aerial duels he has faced.

The left-back also loves to get forward, and he has successfully completed nine of the 19 dribbles he has attempted.

Versatility

While Masina is primarily a left-back, his height and physical frame mean that he has also played as a defensive midfielder for Bologna on one occasion this season, while he would be able to fill in as left-sided centre-back too.

That versatility may appeal to Sam Allardyce if he knows he is getting a player that can be a specialist in one position but also cover other key areas too, and at 24 years of age Masina could be a key player from a defensive point of view for Everton for many years to come.

Do you agree, Toffees fans? Let us know below.