Real Madrid's president, Florentino Perez, has not commented on whether Mourinho is a potential candidate, but the Portuguese coach has already declined a contract offer from Benfica and has expressed interest in returning to the Bernabeu.

According to reports, Mourinho has a clause in his contract with Benfica that would allow him to leave the club for a fee of €3m if a specific condition is met. This condition is tied to Benfica's last match of the season, which takes place on May 16. If Real Madrid acts quickly, they could activate the release clause and bring Mourinho back to the Spanish capital by May 26.

President Perez is working to strengthen his position ahead of an upcoming board meeting, where his re-election is expected to be confirmed. The meeting is scheduled for May 24, two days before Mourinho's release clause expires. This timing suggests that he may replace Arbeloa as the new coach.