Everton have reportedly scouted Lecce midfielder Joan Gonzalez multiple times ahead of a potential move this month.

The Lowdown: Reinforcements needed

The Goodison Park outfit need to bring in reinforcements in January given their precarious position in the Premier League table.

They are currently in the relegation zone and risk being involved in another battle to stay in the division come the end of the season.

The Latest: Gonzalez scouted by Everton

As per Italian news outlet Calciomercato, Everton - along with both Tottenham Hotspur and Borussia Dortmund - have 'often' scouted Gonzalez, who is also 'very much liked' by AC Milan.

Lecce value the Spaniard at €10m (£8.8m), which is the price that Frank Lampard's team will have to pay if they are to secure his signature this month.

The Verdict: Doucoure replacement?

The Toffees are reportedly 'willing' to let Abdoulaye Doucoure leave in January, in which case they would need to find a replacement for him.

Gonzalez shares a similar playing style to the Everton midfielder and ranks in the 82nd percentile for average blocks and aerial duels won per game among his positional peers in Europe's top five leagues over the past year, as well as in the 79th percentile for assists and clearances (FBRef).

The fact that he is dominating aerially is not surprising given his 6 foot 2 stature, so the 20-year-old should be able to cope with the physical demands of the Premier League.

This is a deal which would make sense for Everton, especially if Doucoure ends up departing Goodison Park.