Tottenham have failed with a £9 million offer for Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing.

Spurs have tried to sign the 24-year-old England player before but with Boro needing cash to help fight their battle against relegation, manager Gareth Southgate may be forced to sell his prized possession this time.

Reports in the Daily Express suggest the North Londoners will offer £11m and test the patience of Middlesbrough chief Steve Gibson who was delighted when Downing signed a new five-year deal with the Teessiders in February.