Brighton trying to beat Aston Villa and Sunderland to signing Stewart Downing from Middlesbrough.
Middlesbrough’s Stewart Downing celebrates after the game
Brighton and Hove Albion are hoping that giving Stewart Downing the chance to stay in the Premier League will convince the midfielder to join them from Middlesbrough this summer.
Speculation has been growing about Downing’s next move since he was told by incoming Boro manager Garry Monk that he is not in his plans.
Now the Northern Echo reports that Brighton are hoping to tempt the 32-year-old to the Amex Stadium – especially as he is available on a free transfer.
Aston Villa and Sunderland are also keen admirers of Downing, who is in no rush to make a decision on his future as he still has two years left to run on his lucrative contract at the Riverside Stadium.
Middlesbrough’s Stewart Downing scores their second goal
Yet while the former Liverpool and West Ham United man could stay put and run down his deal at Middlesbrough – where he is currently the highest paid player – it is believed he was very impressed with how Monk dealt with the situation and there is no animosity between the two.
Seagulls boss Chris Hughton is a keen admirer of Downing and clearly wants to add some Premier League experience to his squad as his team prepare for their first season back in the top flight since 1983.
Brighton manager Chris Hughton before the match
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