According to Marca, José Mourinho is trying to persuade Karim Benzema to transfer to Benfica. Mourinho recently called the player, who is described as 'one of the most important coaches in his career', and delivered a tempting message. The report states that a return to Europe for Benzema is closer than many thought, and Mourinho hopes to bring him to Benfica in January. Although Benzema is in a financially attractive situation at Al Ittihad and is happy there, he is considering a return to Europe. Al Ittihad would prefer to keep Benzema, but doubts have increased after a poor start to the season and a defeat to Al Nassr.

A reunion between manager Jose Mourinho and Karim Benzema at Benfica might be possible, as Al-Ittihad are ready to let the forward go if the Portuguese side pay a small transfer fee. Benzema's contract with the Saudi Pro League club expires next year.

Jose Mourinho might try to bring French striker Karim Benzema to Benfica, as the 37-year-old has entered the final year of his contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad. The two previously worked together at Real Madrid, where they won a La Liga title and a Copa Del Rey. During their time at the club, Benzema scored 78 goals in 150 games under Mourinho, who he admitted helped him a lot. A potential move to Benfica would reportedly require the forward to accept a huge pay cut. According to Transfermarkt, the player has a current market value of €7.00m.