‘Mourinho gives Real condition for return’

Jose Mourinho, has already asked Real Madrid to sign a centre-back ahead of his potential return to the Bernabeu, according to Mundo Deportivo.

Mourinho, according to the report, is on the verge of rejoining Real Madrid following his departure from Old Trafford.

Julen Lopetegui was dismissed in October after just 14 games in charge, the last of which saw Real thrashed 5-1 by Barcelona in the El Clasico, before he was replaced by Santiago Solari.

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However, Real are now a huge 10 points behind leaders Barca in the La Liga table and the draw to Villarreal and loss to Real Sociedad in their last two outings has put pressure on Solari.

Mourinho is understood to have turned down a move to Benfica despite the president of the Portuguese outfit claiming “money is not an issue”.

And now another report claims that Mourinho is ready to take charge of Real now but wants assurances that they will guarantee signings this month.

Mundo Deportiv tweeted: “Jose Mourinho, who has just put Benfica out, has told Florentino Perez that if it is for him, he has no problems in taking charge of the team now. Of course, he asks for reinforcements, especially in the centre of defence and a proven goalscorer.”

Mourinho was thought to be angry when United failed to buy the centre-half he wanted last summer and now he wants Real to improve their defence that has shipped 23 goals in 18 La Liga matches.