Chelsea FC is considering paying a king's ransom to bring Mourinho back to Stamford Bridge. Owner Roman Abramovich has ordered club directors to do what ever it takes to land Mourinho, according to the Mail.
"The Russian owner and Mourinho parted on bad terms in 2007 but relations have improved to such an extent since that wages of more than £9 million ($14.5 million) a year — after tax — and a compensation bill from Madrid of £25 million ($40.2 million) would be sanctioned," the Mail reports.
"Such is Roman's [Abramovich] determination to bring back Mourinho that he is prepared to top Jose's Madrid wages, and pay compensation to buy out the remaining two years of his contract," a Chelsea source told the Mail.
There has been some doubt about Mourinho's future at Real Madrid in recent months. He was reportedly seen house-hunting in London in February. It prompted speculation that he was fed up with internal politics at Real Madrid, and would walk away from the club after the season.
But Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo claimed Mourinho was certain to stay with the Spanish giant for at least another season.
Chelsea has seen a flurry of managers come and go since Mourinho's sensational departure in 2007. Although the Blues have remained a force in English soccer, it is clear that they are reaching the end of a cycle.
Andre Villas-Boas guided the veteran-laden squad at the start of this season, but his relationship with key players soon soured, and he was fired in early March. Interim boss Roberto di Matteo revived Chelsea's fortunes, but it is unlikely that he will be given the job on a full-time basis.
A host of big names have been linked with the position including Mourinho, Pep Guardiola, Fabio Capello and more.
Mourinho may be Abramovich's first choice, and it would be up to the Portuguese tactician to decide his own immediate future.
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