Report: Jose Mourinho Wants To Reunite With Karim Benzema At Benfica

Jose Mourinho could be preparing one of the biggest moves of the upcoming transfer window, as reports in Portugal suggest the new Benfica boss wants to sign Karim Benzema from Saudi club Al Ittihad.

According to transfer insider Ekrem Konur, Mourinho has requested the Benfica board to explore a deal for the Ballon d’Or-winning striker, who he previously coached at Real Madrid.

A Reunion Years In The Making

Benzema, now 34, played under Mourinho at Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013. Though the pair clashed at times, the Frenchman has publicly credited Mourinho for toughening his mentality and helping him evolve into one of the world’s elite forwards.

The striker left Madrid in 2023 after helping Los Blancos to their 14th Champions League crown, joining Al Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League. Despite initial reports of frustration in Saudi Arabia, Benzema settled and even inspired his side to a league title.

The Financial Hurdle

Benzema’s contract with Al Ittihad expires in June 2026, but reports claim the club would accept bids in the region of €7 million to let him leave early.

For Benfica, that fee would not be the issue — it’s Benzema’s massive salary. The forward reportedly earns around £83 million per year, meaning he would need to agree to a drastic pay cut to make the Lisbon reunion possible.

Mourinho Faces Hostile Reception In Portugal

As speculation builds, Mourinho is also dealing with tension in Portugal. Porto president Andre Villas-Boas warned that the Portuguese tactician would not be welcomed warmly at the Estádio do Dragão when he visits with Benfica.

Mourinho, who won the Champions League with Porto in 2004, remains a divisive figure in his homeland — and a potential Benzema signing will only intensify the spotlight on his return to Portuguese football.