Tottenham’s ears have been pricked with Middlesbrough chief executive Keith Lamb’s admission that he would consider an approach from the North London side.
Harry Redknapp’s outfit angered Boro with their approach for the England international in January, a move which the Teesside club deemed as unsettling to the player.
However, with Boro’s relegation to The Championship the club have conceded that an exit from The Riverside for Downing is now inevitable.
Lamb says Spurs may find it difficult to negotiate with his club following the negative relations laid down in the New Year, but he would take on board their interest if it were forthcoming once more.
"I wouldn't rule anyone out and anyone in," said Lamb on Downing's potential suitors. "Stewart's sale is not vital.
"Spurs might find it difficult to re-open negotiations on Stewart and it wouldn't be the easiest negotiations from their point of view.
"But I would certainly take their call."