Villa lead the chase for 12million-rated Middlesbrough winger Downing

Published: 13 Jul 2009 - 08:19:52

Rss feed

Villa lead the chase for 12million-rated Middlesbrough winger Downing

Stewart Downing looks destined to join Aston Villa this week in a £12million deal. As Sportsmail revealed, Villa boss Martin O’Neill is determined to sign the England winger even though he is unlikely to return from his broken foot injury until October at the earliest. The move will raise further questions over the future of England international Ashley Young. Although Tottenham are interested, it is the threat of a move from either Chelsea or Manchester United that may concern Villa more. Tottenham have also shown an interest in Downing, who will be 25 later this month. Downing is due to meet O’Neill this week to discuss terms. Boro have signed Colchester’s Mark Yeates as Downing’s replacement but face competition from Chelsea for Adam Johnson, who has turned down a new deal. They are expecting a further inquiry from O’Neill surrounding Tuncay Sanli’s future. The forward, valued at £10m, has also attracted interest from Everton. Gary O’Neil’s availability is likely to spark a bidding war between Everton, Fulham and West Ham.