Tottenham are favourites for Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing.

The Daily Mail says Downing has been a top target for Spurs ever since the 2006 World Cup.

Boro have so far resisted all opportunities to cash in the England international despite the star's bid to leave.

But they will finally cave in and offload Downing, 24, at the end of the season. He is expected to cost in the region of £12million.

The deal will end Spurs' quest to bring in a top-quality left winger.