Leeds are looking to sign a winger this month, and Middlesbrough’s Downing is reportedly set to leave.
Stewart Downing is reportedly set to leave Middlesbrough between now and the end of the January transfer window due to a clause in his contract – and he could be the perfect signing for Leeds United.
The Mirror claim 34-year-old Downing is expected to depart the Riverside, as the clause means he will be handed a pay rise if he makes his 150th appearances for the Teesside club in his second spell.
The former Liverpool and Aston Villa ace came off the bench during Saturday’s draw against Millwall, which was his 149th appearance since rejoining Tony Pulis’ side. He has clocked up 386 appearances in all competitions.
Downing has huge experience at the highest level, turning out 408 times in the Premier League and earning 35 caps for England. Now in the twilight of his career, Downing still has the ability to contribute to a Championship side.
Leeds need to consider such a move that would bring Downing to Elland Road, with Marcelo Bielsa’s side boasting a whole host of excellent young talent including the likes of Jamie Shackleton, Leif Davis and Tyler Roberts.
But most importantly, Jack Clarke needs guidance. Still only 18, Clarke has shone in glimpses and is now a regular in the Whites’ starting eleven. He has score twice and created two more in 14 games.
He is just another example of how Thorp Arch continues to churn out young, excellent talent. In recent years, Lewis Cook, Sam Byram, Ronaldo Vieira and Charlie Taylor have all left.
Clarke needs a player he can learn from, but one to also keep him at Elland Road and grow into a future England international. Downing can be that player to help tutor Clarke, but to also add quality to Bielsa’s side.
With Downing’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, Leeds may be able to purchase Downing for a nominal fee and he could be perfect for Clarke’s development.
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