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

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. 

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. 

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. 

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.