The Spanish newspaper AS has revealed that Benfica will hold an urgent meeting with José Mourinho to discuss renewing his contract, a significant blow to Real Madrid’s efforts to sign the “Special One.”
The Portuguese coach tops the list of candidates to succeed Álvaro Arbeloa at the Santiago Bernabéu, with the idea of a second stint for Mourinho receiving strong support from Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez.
Mourinho’s current contract with Benfica runs until the summer of 2027, but the 63-year-old can leave in the last ten days of May for just €3 million.
According to the latest report, Benfica president Rui Costa will meet with Mourinho in the coming hours to discuss a one-year contract extension, amending the release clause, and potentially doubling its current value.
Should Mourinho accept this move, it would spell the end of Real Madrid’s hopes of signing him. Perez’s administration is unwilling to spend any money to secure a new coach, regardless of who he is.
Mourinho’s response to Benfica’s new offer remains unknown, especially since he has clearly expressed his desire to return to Real Madrid. He may refuse to stand in the way of achieving his current goal, thus opening the door for Real Madrid to sign him for €3 million.
It’s worth noting that Spanish newspapers are reporting another imminent meeting between Mourinho and Perez in person in Lisbon in the coming days, which could resolve the situation and result in the Portuguese coach being appointed as Real Madrid’s new manager.
