Compensation and timeline for Mourinho's possible transfer from Benfica to Real Madrid

Mourinho came back to Benfica for another term as manager in September 2025 and has achieved an unbeaten streak of 29 matches in Liga Portugal since that point.

However, his prospects remain uncertain, even though the Benfica president has offered a renewed contract to the 63-year-old, making it probable that he will exit the club.

Real Madrid aims to recruit Mourinho once more to the Santiago Bernabeu to succeed Alvaro Arbeloa, with his contract featuring a provision that lets him depart Benfica for €3m within 10 days of their final match.

Benfica faces Estoril on May 16, with qualification for the Champions League in the balance, allowing Real until May 26 to trigger the release clause and return him to the Spanish capital.

As reported by Record Portugal, Mourinho's exit from the Eagles would involve a €7m (£6m) compensation fee if both parties agree to separate during the 10-day period following the season's last fixture.

The piece adds that Mourinho plans to reach a definitive choice on his next steps only after the season wraps up, and within that 10-day timeframe.