Stewart Downing could spend the rest of the season away from Middlesbrough after being told he can leave on loan.
Former England international Downing's situation is being monitored by a series of potential suitors and Press Association Sport reports he will be allowed to make a temporary move after slipping out of contention at his home-town club.
Downing, 32, has been linked with neighbours Newcastle, who are currently engaged in a fight for promotion back to the Premier League, but might be more tempted by the chance to join forces with Sam Allardyce once again.
The midfielder prospered under the former Sunderland and England boss during their time together at West Ham, where he was used to good effect in a central role.