Report: Mourinho wants to sign ex-Real Madrid Ballon d'Or winner from Saudi

Jose Mourinho in Real Madrid training with Karim Benzema (L) and Cristiano Ronaldo (R) || Image credit: Imago

Report: Mourinho wants to sign ex-Real Madrid Ballon d'Or winner from Saudi

Faruq Ibrahim 23:52 - 23.09.2025

Jose Mourinho wants to bring one of his former players to Benfica, according to reports.

Benfica are reportedly eyeing a move for Al Ittihad’s Karim Benzema at Jose Mourinho's request, with the Frenchman said to be available for a bargain price. 

The 34-year-old striker played under Jose for three seasons at Real Madrid, and although they had their conflicts, Benzema credits the Portuguese for transforming him. 

A reunion afoot?

According to  Ekrem Konur, Mourinho, who was only recently appointed by Benfica, wants to add the former France international striker to their ranks, Goal reported.

Benzema left Real Madrid for the Gulf after leading Los Blancos to their fourteenth UCL title. He joined Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, and despite rumours, he was unsettled in his first few months at the club. He stayed, and last season, he led them to the Pro League title. 

Benzema’s contract expires in June next year, but according to reports, the Tigers will accept offers in the region of €7 million to let him go before June. 

Real Madrid s Karim Benzema and Jose Mourinho during la Liga match on march 18th 2012. Photo: Alex Cid-Fuentes
Real Madrid s Karim Benzema and Jose Mourinho during la Liga match on march 18th 2012. Photo: Alex Cid-Fuentes

While that figure will not be tough to match for the Eagles, Benzema's current wages are reported to be around £83 million annually. Hence, he has to be willing to take a significant pay cut to reunite with his old gaffer. 

Hostility for Mourinho in Portugal 

Meanwhile, Porto’s president, Andres Villas Boas, insists that Jose Mourinho will not receive a hero's welcome from Porto fans when he takes his Benfica side into town.