West Ham United are leading the race to sign AFC Bournemouth left-back Jordan Zemura, according to a report.

The Lowdown: Upgrade needed?

West Ham are already well-stocked at left-back, considering David Moyes has both Aaron Cresswell and Emerson Palmieri at his disposal, but it may be time to start thinking about bringing in a new option.

Emerson has found it difficult to hold down a regular spot in the starting XI, being benched on nine occasions in the Premier League this season, while Cresswell has been a loyal servant to the club, but he is now 33-years-old and past his peak years.

The Latest: Zemura targeted

According to a report from 90min, the Hammers are leading the race to sign Zemura, who will most likely be available on a free transfer at the end of the season, having failed to reach terms with Bournemouth to extend his contract.

Moyes showed an interest in signing the left-back last summer, and he has now been presented with the perfect opportunity to finally get his man, but West Ham are not the only club vying for his signature.

Newcastle United, Leeds United and Aston Villa are all said to be admirers of the full-back, and he may also have some offers from abroad, given that clubs from France and Germany are also eyeing moves.

The Verdict: Get it done?

Former Bournemouth manager Scott Parker has waxed lyrical about the 23-year-old, lauding him as 'excellent', while also describing him as an 'attack-minded' full-back, indicating he would also have a lot to offer West Ham on the front foot.

The Zimbabwe international ranks in the 82nd percentile for successful take-ons per 90, highlighting his attacking threat, while he is clearly willing to put his body on the line defensively too, ranking in the 97th percentile for blocks per 90 compared to other full-backs in the past year.

Cresswell's career is by no means done just yet, considering he has been one of the Hammers' most consistent performers in the Premier League this season, averaging a Sofascore rating of 6.96, the second-highest figure in the entire squad.

However, the Englishman is at the age where long-term replacements have to be looked at, and Zemura would be an excellent addition to the West Ham squad, who would be able to pitch in going forward, as well as defensively.

Not only that, but his availability on a free transfer means Moyes will have money left over to strengthen other areas of the squad.