Jose Mourinho set to manage former club

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Benfica have identified Jose Mourinho as their next manager following the sacking of Rui Vitoria, it has been claimed.

The Primeira Liga giants parted ways with the 48-year-old on Thursday, ending his three-and-a-half year spell at the club.

Vitoria had led Benfica to back-to-back league titles at the club but has seen his side struggle to keep pace with the likes of Porto this term. A 2-0 defeat to Portimonense on Wednesday proved to be the last straw for Vitoria.

Mourinho was sacked as Manchester United manager in December and it was reported then that Benfica had been keeping tabs on him.

The Portuguese returned to his home nation after being axed and was spotted in the stands watching Vitoria de Setubal host Santa Clara.

According to Portuguese publication Record, Mourinho is very well regarded at Benfica.

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

The 55-year-old began his managerial career at the club and led the side to six wins from 11 games.

Mourinho only lasted three months at Benfica after a breakdown in contract discussions with a newly elected club president.

The outlet adds, however, that Benfica would not be able to afford his €15million-a-year wages and may offer him a short-term deal, until the end of the season.