Loose-Ends Remain In Downing Deal!

Vital Boro understands that Stewart Downing has still not officially put pen to paper on a new contract at The Riverside. Despite confirmation from the player and club suggesting otherwise only last week, there remains a few “loose-ends” to finalise.

However, reports are adamant that a deal will be finally completed within days, with the winger signing a new five-year deal. It is unclear what factors are currently stalling the confirmation, or whether Downing`s meddling, money-grabbing agent Ian Elliot has anything to do with it.

Downing recently admitted to the Daily Mail, “The contract is all agreed but there are still some things to iron out. It should be done any time this week.”

The 23-year-old has been in good form of late, and is believed to have been buoyed by the recent club record signing of Afonso Alves. He stated last week that the club`s demonstration of “ambition” by bringing in the Brazilian goal-machine was one of the key reasons in him signing on.

Reports are also suggesting that Spurs boss Juande Ramos is still keeping a close eye on proceedings between Downing and the club. Tottenham were believed to have made a January bid for the winger which was turned down, although Boro have always insisted no such bid was ever received. Ramos is not giving up on resurrecting a move for the England international until his future is clear.