A method, network node and wireless device (WD) for extended physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) monitoring are disclosed. According to one aspect, a method includes receiving a triggering signal, configured to trigger a search space expansion in the WD. The method also includes, when the triggering signal fulfills predetermined criteria, performing a search space expansion, the at least one predetermined criteria being based at least in part on at least one of physical downlink control channel, PDCCH, characteristics, physical uplink shared channel, PUSCH, characteristics and physical downlink shared channel, PDSCH, characteristics.