Benfica President Keeping Tabs On Mourinho

By Max Wise

Money will not be an issue for Benfica should Jose Mourinho decide to take the managerial reigns at the Estadio De Luz, according to club President Luis Filipe Vieira.

Mourinho has been out of work since he was relieved of his duties as Manchester United manager a fortnight ago after a poor start to the season.

Benfica likewise parted company with manager Rui Vitoria last week and installed Bruno Lage as caretaker manager for the time being.

Benfica are currently third on the Primeira Liga standings with 35 points, seven points adrift leaders, FC Porto, who are on 42.

Mourinho has been linked with a return to the Santiago Bernabeu to take charge of Real Madrid for a second time whiles another of his former clubs, Inter Milan, are reportedly on the hunt for the man who took them to Champions League glory in 2010.

"For now, Bruno Lage is the coach of Benfica," Vieira told Portuguese broadcaster SIC. "There will be news next week."

When asked about Mourinho, Vieira said: "I am his friend. Who would not like to have Mourinho? [But] I have not talked to him.

"If he says yes, tomorrow, he'll be here at the drop of a hat. Money is no issue for Benfica."

It remains to be seen whether Mourinho will accept Vieira’s offer having led their eternal rivals FC Porto to the Champions League title in 2004, and two Portuguese league titles and the UEFA Cup during his time at the club.