Transfer: Mourinho emerges as Perez’ preferred choice for Real Madrid job

By Adegboyega Adeleye

Jose Mourinho has emerged as the preferred candidate of Real Madrid President Florentino Perez to take over as head coach this summer, according to The Athletic.

Interim manager, Alvaro Arbeloa’s contract runs out at the end of the season, and Mourinho has emerged as a surprise contender for the job at his former club.

The 63-year-old, who is currently in charge of Benfica, reportedly has a £2.6 million break clause in his contract.

The Portuguese club are currently second in the league and seven points behind leaders Porto.

However, it is believed the 63-year-old does not enjoy universal support inside Real Madrid to return for a second spell.

According to the report, Perez is leading the process to find a long-term successor to Xabi Alonso, who was sacked earlier this season, Mourinho finds himself in a strong position.

Mourinho spent three seasons in charge of Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, winning LaLiga and the Copa del Rey.