As reported by The Sun, Crystal Palace are hoping to sign Middlesbrough's Stewart Downing on loan in this month's transfer window.

What's the word?

Downing has struggled to become a firm fixture in Aitor Karanka's starting eleven this season and could be set for an exit from the club with the manager happy to let him go this month.

The Sun say that Sam Allardyce is the manager who most covets the winger, having previously managed him at West Ham United.

The Eagles could face a fight for his signature with multiple other Premier League clubs interested in his services, alongside clubs from America and China, according to the paper.

Can he do a job?

Sam Allardyce managed to get some of the best form of Downing's career when the two were at West Ham United and although not as effective this season for Boro, is one of the most experienced playmakers in the Premier League.

The Eagles have scored more goals than anyone else in the bottom half of the table but more depth is always welcome heading into a relegation dogfight. Their style of play benefits attacking football so it makes sense to bolster the options in the final third.

A loan move would be relatively risk free and provide the Palace manager with a known, trusted option. For Downing it's a chance to get more regular football under his belt with a manager who can clearly inspire him to good performances.