Spurs have reportedly renewed their interest in
Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing. The England international
looks set to leave The Riverside, after Boro decided it was time to
part company with one of their most prized assets.
The Teesside-born ace had been in talks to prolong his current
contract which has over two-years to run - but he is now set to
leave during the current transfer window. Boro are looking to
bolster their squad this month and with a ready made replacement in
Adam Johnson waiting in the wings - Downing is being allowed to
leave to finance other moves.
Gareth Southgate has made firm enquiries for Afonso Alves and Fred
in the last week, and neither Brazilian would be cheap - whilst the
likes of Jermain Defoe, Shola Ameobia and Rob Hulse, other possible
targets, would also represent major outlays.
Now Boro are to open talks and it is understood that the clubs have
met at the highest levels in the past week.