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.

Tottenham have tracked Downing for a number of seasons and are again now in prime position to finally get their man, according to Skysports.com.

However, Everton and Portsmouth - who have also made enquires for him in recent months - are ready to compete for his signature.

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