Bernabeu reunion nears as Jose Mourinho exit plan confirmed by Benfica

In an official statement, Benfica made clear that a deal is already in place for the 63-year-old manager to leave if Perez wins the presidential election on Sunday, 7 June.

The Portuguese club said: "If Florentino Perez wins the elections, Real Madrid will pay the penalty clause in Jose Mourinho's contract, amounting to 15 million euros."

Perez, who is once again standing for election against challenger Enrique Riquelme, has already publicly indicated that Mourinho is his preferred choice to take charge at the Bernabeu next season.

The Real Madrid vote is expected to be closely watched, although Perez remains the favourite after receiving strong backing from several club figures and former players.

Reports also suggest Perez has already outlined his early summer plans, which include moves in the transfer market as well as changes in the dugout. One of those early decisions involved the arrival of Ibrahima Konate as part of the club's rebuild.

The current situation follows a disappointing campaign under former manager Xabi Alonso and later interim boss Alvaro Arbeloa, with pressure mounting for a return to top-level success.

Perez believes Mourinho is the right figure to restore that winning mentality. The Portuguese coach previously managed Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, winning three trophies and leaving a lasting mark on the club.

If Perez wins the election as expected, Mourinho's return to the Santiago Bernabeu would be set in motion 13 years after his first spell ended.

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