Aston Villa could capitalise on Stewart Downing’s contractual situation at Middlesbrough.
Aston Villa should considering bringing back Stewart Downing, as an exit from Middlesbrough appears to draw closer.
Downing is currently benched, as if he starts one more game for Tony Pulis’ side it triggers a one-year extension on his current contract, which the club do not want to do.
Boro are more keen to cash in on Downing, who is on a £35,000-a-week wage, and Villa should really think about bringing him back.
The claret and blues have lost Yannick Bolasie this month, who was on a massive salary, so paying Downing’s wages would surely be no problem.
And the return of Downing to Villa Park could set pulses racing all around the Midlands club.
Downing is still very fondly remembered at Villa for his first spell with them, where he made 79 appearances before moving to Liverpool in 2011.
Downing could offer Smith’s side experience and quality going forward, as they push to break into the play offs.
And the return of Downing could be just what Villa need to kick start their season, after what has been a rather disappointing run of form of late.
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