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Stewart Downing in talks with Birmingham City over transfer

Stewart Downing during the Premier League match between Everton and Middlesbrough at Goodison Park
Image: Stewart Downing is surplus to requirements at Middlesbrough

Birmingham City are in advanced talks with Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing, Sky sources understand.

The 33-year-old has been told he is surplus to requirements at Middlesbrough and has been forced to train with the U23s.

It is understood Harry Redknapp has offered the former England international a two-year contract but Downing and Birmingham have yet to agree personal terms.

Redknapp is keen to strengthen his squad before the transfer window closes, and was frustrated earlier this week when Nigeria international Ogenyi Onazi was denied a work permit.

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"We were hoping he'd get it but Nigeria dropped out the top 50 so it made it difficult," Redknapp told the Birmingham Mail, while also confirming his interest in Ghana midfielder Afriyie Acquah.

Downing, who won 35 caps for England, began his career at Middlesbrough before joining Aston Villa in 2009.

Spells at Liverpool and West Ham followed before Downing rejoined his hometown club in July 2015. He made 34 appearances last season, scoring two goals.

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Birmingham visit Burton Albion in the Sky Bet Championship on Friday, live on Sky Sports Football from 7pm.

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