Former Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has begun a new chapter in his coaching career, as he was named the new manager of SL Benfica earlier this week.
Having been sacked by Fenerbahce at the start of the season, the ‘Special One’ is back where it all began for him, taking over the reins at Estadio da Luz.
Now, according to reports in Portugal (h/t Fichajes), The Portuguese manager has already made his first demand for the winter transfer window: the signing of Real Madrid left-back Ferland Mendy.
The Portuguese club’s objective is to reinforce a defence that has shown weaknesses on the flanks in the early parts of the season.
As such, Mourinho sees Ferland Mendy as the ideal profile to strengthen his side. The 30-year-old Frenchman would bring experience, strength in one-on-one duels and the ability to balance a backline that lacks defensively solid full-backs.
As per the report, Benfica are ready to make a €10 million offer in January. This figure could be convincing for Real Madrid, given that the player is not part of Xabi Alonso’s plans.
The Frenchman is under contract until 2028, but his role at Real Madrid has diminished, with Alonso preferring Alvaro C arreras and Fran Garcia.
Injuries have also hindered Mendy’s continuity, with the player not having featured since April, pushing the Real Madrid board to listen to offers.
There is still no definite date set for the 30-year-old’s return from injury, but irrespective of that, Mourinho and Benfica see him as a potential addition in January.
Mendy, for his part, is reluctant to leave Real Madrid, but given his playing situation, it will be interesting to see if the ex-Lyon man considers the offer from Benfica.