Portuguese giants Benfica are set to step up talks with manager Jose Mourinho over a new contract.
Benfica are aware of the growing interest in Mourinho from Real Madrid, and O Jogo reports that they’re pulling out all the stops to keep him.
Madrid are almost certainly going to make another managerial change this summer, especially after another embarrassing trophyless campaign.
Alvaro Arbeloa was brought in to replace Xabi Alonso, who buckled under the pressure of player power, but he has failed to deliver the desired results.
Madrid were still within touching distance of fierce rivals Barcelona in the perennial two-way La Liga title race when Alonso was relieved of his duties.
However, Los Blancos have fallen ten points behind the champions-elect.
With just four games remaining, Barcelona are one win away from being confirmed La Liga winners and could be crowned champions in next weekend’s El Clasico at the Spotify Camp Nou.
Arbeloa’s place in the dugout is already under serious scrutiny, but losing to Barcelona and allowing them to clinch the title could put the final nail in his coffin.
With Arbeloa one foot out the door, Madrid are once again looking at another ex-employee to help wrestle the La Liga crown from Barcelona.
That search has led them back to Mourinho’s doorstep, although luring him away from Benfica would be a significant battle as they are determined to retain his services.
Mourinho has one year left on his contract with Benfica, but they are desperate to keep him in Lisbon until 2028 or 2029, and that intent has already been backed up by action.
Benfica president Rui Costa has held talks with Mourinho to map out plans for the upcoming season.
However, there’s a narrow window that could allow clubs to act quickly. Mourinho has a €3.5 million release clause in his contract, but it’s only active for ten days after the end of the season.
Once that period passes, any club interested in hiring him will need to negotiate directly with Benfica, who are notorious for being difficult to do business with.
