Source: Telegraph
Tottenham close in on Stewart Downing
Spurs manager Harry Redknapp has been keen to snap up the 24-year-old ever since his days as Portsmouth coach and Downing would reportedly welcome a move to White Hart Lane.[LNB]The main hurdle to overcome is the price. According to the Sun[LNB], Boro want £15 million for Downing, who signed a new five-year contract last February.[LNB]As such, Boro are in a position to demand what they like and, if Tottenham are to get their man, it may involve a swap deal with Gareth Bale.[LNB]However, Redknapp will be loath to lose his Wales international left-back, and it is thought Jamie O'Hara could be used as part exchange instead.[LNB]On the possibility of losing key players in the January transfer window, Boro manager Gareth Southgate said: "I'd love to say x, y or z are untouchable but I can't. I've got to be honest and say certain players would be sold.[LNB]"They would have to be exceptional offers but there are certain clubs with exceptional money.[LNB]"We'll fight to keep our best players but are not in a position to say they are untouchable when there is an offer too good to turn down.[LNB]"The majority of clubs in this division will feel the same way in January."[LNB]Another winger being linked with Tottenham is Sunderland's Kieran Richardson.[LNB]The Mirror reports that Richardson has emerged as an £8m target, but that Spurs face stiff competition for his signature from Bolton.[LNB][LNB]
