West Ham are competing alongside Crystal Palace for Bologna defender Adam Masina, according to the Sun.
The newspaper claims that the two London clubs are going head-to-head for the left-back in the January transfer window.
It is understood that both Premier League teams have already had bids rejected for the Serie A ace, with Bologna valuing him at £15million.
The report details that West Ham made the initial bid for Masina as he has been chalked down as competition for Aaron Cresswell, while Palace need a replacement for the injured Jeffrey Schlupp.
The Mirror have previously reported that Tottenham have eyed a move for Masina, but he was only to be considered if Danny Rose sealed an exit in January.
Good move for West Ham?
West Ham are believed to be firmly in the running for Masina, who is a 6ft 3in defensive colossus that looks a good fit for the physicality of the Premier League.
He has become a reliable player for Serie A’s mid-table side Bologna and it could take a move to England to get the best out of him.
The Italian is highly-rated in his homeland and he would certainly provide good competition for Cresswell.
However, the only sticking point may be the £15million asking price and that does seem a tad steep.
This Is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
West Ham are understood to still be keen on Masina despite initial rejections and David Moyes want to bring in a new left-sided defender during January.
However, there now seems to be a real interest from Palace for the players’ signature and that could be an interesting January battle.
This Is Futbol rating: 4/10