While Jose Mourinho will still have a year left on his deal at Benfica this summer, the Portuguese manager could end up joining a bigger club amidst links with Newcastle United and Real Madrid.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, the former Chelsea and Manchester United manager has already made his intentions clear. He has informed interested parties that a return to Real Madrid will be his first choice, amidst interest from Newcastle United.
The 63-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best managers of all time, and the interest in his services has once again peaked, as he looks set to leave Benfica at the end of the season. While his team have been unbeaten in the Portuguese league, they are likely to miss out on the title, which has led to fresh speculations about his future.
Newcastle are one of the clubs that are very keen on his signature. With the Magpies struggling in the ongoing campaign, they are considering parting ways with Eddie Howe. They have identified Mourinho as the perfect replacement. Given his pedigree, he could be the guy to help them take the next step.
However, they have been made aware that Mourinho’s priority will be to return to Real Madrid if the opportunity presents itself. The Portuguese manager had a three-year spell at the Spanish club back in the day. While he won all domestic titles, he failed to get his hands on the Champions League.
Internal tensions led to his departure in 2013, and since then, he has managed quite a few top clubs. The 63-year-old has a great relationship with Florentino Perez, and he would jump at the chance to return to Madrid.
Alvaro Arbeloa is unlikely to continue beyond this season, and Los Blancos are already assessing a number of options. Mourinho is a part of their wishlist, with Perez in favour of his return to the club. The president wants an experienced, authoritative figure in the dressing room and considers the Benfica boss an ideal fit.
While his contract at the Portuguese club still has over a year left, there is a release clause that could be triggered to snap him up this summer.
