Middlesbrough’s left sided midfielder Stuart Downing has called in the police over “conspiracy to defraud and money laundering” and police have confirmed that arrests have been made.

“Cleveland Police can confirm that officers from their economic crime unit (fraud section) have arrested a 50-year-old man and a 43-year-old woman from the Newcastle-upon-Tyne area on suspicion of offences of conspiracy to defraud and money laundering,” said a Police spokesman.

“They are currently being questioned by police at a police station in the Northumbria area.”

A club spokesman said: “Middlesbrough Football Club can confirm that it was approached some time ago by Stewart Downing with concerns he had regarding the way his and his company’s affairs have been handled.”

An FA spokesman added: “The FA can confirm that it was made aware by Middlesbrough FC of concerns relating to the actions of a licensed football agent in connection to their player Stewart Downing’s financial affairs.

“The FA then acted as liaison between the club and Cleveland Police. We will continue to liaise with both parties to ensure that any potential breaches of football regulations are dealt with at the appropriate time.”

via SkySports

image via Yimg

When you’re considered on of the best young talents in the Premiership, you’ve been involved in the England setup AND you’ve had a lot of interest during the January Transfer Window, you can bet a new contract is on the way. Middlesbrough’s own Stuart Downing today signed to a new 5 year contract, keeping him at the club until 2013 after being convinced of the clubs ambition after the signing of Alfonso Alves from Michael Bradley’s Heerenvenn.

[image via EurNews]