Speculation grows over €15m fee as Benfica, Real Madrid linked to Mourinho return

Reports circulating in parts of the European football media suggest that Portuguese club Benfica may be demanding a €15 million compensation fee before allowing any potential move involving manager José Mourinho, amid renewed speculation linking him with a possible return to Real Madrid.

According to the claims, Benfica are said to have set the financial condition as part of an internal agreement structure that would apply if Mourinho were to be approached by another club. The reports have also linked Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez with interest in a possible managerial return for Mourinho at the Santiago Bernabéu.

However, neither Benfica nor Real Madrid have issued any official confirmation regarding negotiations, compensation demands, or a formal approach for the Portuguese coach.

The speculation has prompted discussion across football circles due to Mourinho’s long-standing history with Real Madrid, where he previously managed the club between 2010 and 2013, winning several domestic trophies and reaching the latter stages of the UEFA Champions League during his tenure.

As of the time of reporting, there is no independently verified evidence confirming that any agreement exists between the clubs, nor that formal talks are underway regarding a managerial appointment or release clause payment.

The situation remains speculative, with no official statements from Benfica or the parties involved confirming the reported figures or negotiations.