Downing For Man Utd - Yeah Right!
Boro held preliminary negotiations with United about the veteran duo, but talks went on hold while the Ronaldo deal with Real Madrid was under way.
But with Riverside director Keith Lamb confirming 24-year-old England winger Downing can leave when he recovers from a foot injury there is room for Boro to manoeuvre over their Neville and Scholes bids.