Stewart Downing has confirmed he would be interested in a move to Tottenham - but wants the issue resolved quickly.

Spurs are reportedly preparing a bid upwards of £8million for the Middlesbrough midfielder but the England international has long been linked with the White Hart Lane outfit and is growing tired of the speculation.

The 23-year-old told Sky Sports News: "I am aware and flattered by the interest from Tottenham.

"But until Middlesbrough and Tottenham agree terms I remain a Middlesbrough player and am fully committed to helping Gareth Southgate and the team any way I can.

"I hope this situation is resolved sooner rather than later as all the speculation is affecting me and I would like to draw a line under the situation and focus fully on my football career."

Boro boss Southgate said after Saturday's 1-1 draw with Liverpool - in which Downing hit the post - that he hoped the left-sided player would be staying at the Riverside.

However, should Spurs firm up their interest this week, he may now have played his final game for the club.

"We have had no bids," Southgate said. "In Stewart's case, we have probably had stronger interest in the past. He loves being here and playing as best he can.

"I don't think it was his last game. This is part and parcel of dealing with January. I'll be glad to see the back of it."

Spurs could be preparing for a busy couple of weeks in the transfer market after reports that boss Juande Ramos is prepared to offload a number of players.

Downing's agent Elliott insists nothing can happen until Tottenham make their interest official by lodging a bid with Boro.

Elliott told Sky Sports News: "He's very, very flattered by Tottenham's interest in him.

"They play the type of football he would like to be involved in.

"If the interest was firmed up he would be interested in talking to them - but we can't take it any further.

"It's between the two clubs. Once they have agreed a deal, we can look at it and see if it's something we want to do.

"Stewart's a great professional - he gives everything to Middlesbrough.

"He's a local lad and if he left it would be with a heavy heart - but sometimes you need to move on to better your career."