Stewart Downing in talks over switch to Harry Redknapp's Birmingham

Stewart Downing is allowed to leave Middlesbrough on a free transfer

Birmingham City are in talks with Stewart Downing over a move from Middlesbrough, according to Sky sources.

Blues boss Harry Redknapp told Sky Sports News HQ on Saturday that he is keen to bring the former England international St Andrew's.

Downing has been told by new Boro boss Garry Monk that he is free to find another club, despite two years still remaining on his four-year deal, for no transfer fee.

Harry Redknapp says he also wants Ashley Cole and Robbie Keane

The 32-year-old struggled for first-team games under Aitor Karanka last season but ended the season with 24 Premier League starts, having been given a second wind by caretaker boss Steve Agnew.

Downing has made 82 appearances since returning to Teesside in a £5.5m deal from West Ham in 2015.

Downing came through Middlesbrough's academy and made more than 200 appearances before a £12m move to Aston Villa in 2009.

Since Villa he has also had a two-year spell at Liverpool and won 35 caps for England. Redknapp wants to sign him as well as fellow Premier League veterans Ashley Cole and Robbie Keane from LA Galaxy.