Chris Hughton is hoping to convince Middlesbrough’s Stewart Downing to move to Brighton and Hove Albion this summer, having been deemed surplus to requirements at the Riverside Stadium, reports the Northern Echo.

Garry Monk, who is only a number of weeks into his role as Boro’s manager, has told Downing he will be allowed to leave the Riverside Stadium for free this summer, as he will not feature in the 38-year old’s plans for the upcoming Sky Bet Championship campaign.

Hughton could hand the 32-year old a route back into the Premier League though, with the Brighton manager keen to add some top-flight experience to his squad ahead of the 2017/18 campaign.

Downing has played the majority of his career in the top-flight, and would bring a wealth of experience to Hughton’s largely inexperienced Brighton squad.

Last season, the 32-year old made 34 appearances across all competitions for Boro, but did not show the creativity he has done previously, scoring just twice and adding only three assists across the season.

Brighton are preparing for their debut season in the Premier League, and after learning about Downing’s availability, Hughton is keen to sign the winger this summer.

The Seagulls are not the only club interested in Downing, with a number of MLS clubs also looking to sign the 32-year old.

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