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Jose Mourinho has reportedly set his sights on Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand as his primary transfer target, as he prepares for a sensational comeback to Real Madrid. The Portuguese manager, expected to replace outgoing boss Alvaro Arbeloa, is also considering major changes to his coaching setup, which could include club legend Toni Kroos joining his backroom team.

Mourinho identifies Hjulmand as key midfield addition

During preparations for his second spell in Madrid, Mourinho has wasted no time defining his transfer priorities. Danish international Morten Hjulmand tops his list, with reports from COPE suggesting that Mourinho has requested Real Madrid’s board to authorise a move for the Sporting CP captain. The Portuguese club is expected to demand a fee of around €50 million (£43m) for the midfielder, who has been one of the standout performers in the Primeira Liga this season.

Sporting manager reacts to Real Madrid’s interest

Reacting to speculation linking Hjulmand with Real Madrid, Sporting boss Rui Borges stated that he was not surprised by the attention. “Real Madrid’s interest in Hjulmand? I think it’s natural, given the quality of the player and the exceptional seasons he’s had at Sporting. His talent is clear for all to see. It doesn’t surprise me that Real Madrid or any other major club would want him—it’s proof that the work done has been recognised. As a coach, it makes me proud,” Borges said in an interview with Sport TV.

Toni Kroos tipped for backroom role under Mourinho

Alongside his transfer plans, Mourinho is also planning to revamp the coaching structure at the Bernabeu. During his first stint with Real Madrid, he worked closely with Aitor Karanka as assistant manager. This time, the 63-year-old is believed to favour appointing an iconic former player to his staff. Retired German midfielder Toni Kroos has emerged as a strong candidate, with Mourinho reportedly viewing him as the perfect link between the dressing room and the club’s management.

Arbeloa departs as Perez places faith in Mourinho

Alvaro Arbeloa has officially confirmed that he will step down from his managerial role after the final match of the season, clearing the way for Mourinho’s return. Arbeloa, who took charge in January, struggled to produce consistent results, with Real Madrid missing out on both domestic and European honours. Despite the disappointing campaign, Arbeloa expressed gratitude for his tenure, saying, “I leave Madrid with immense gratitude toward my players. They’ve improved me, made every day enjoyable, taught me a lot, and made me a better coach than I was back in January.”

Perez bets on Mourinho to revive Madrid’s dominance

Florentino Perez’s decision to bring Mourinho back is being widely seen as a bold personal gamble aimed at restoring Real Madrid’s lost glory after two trophyless seasons. The appointment arrives amid rumours of an upcoming presidential election, with Perez expected to face competition from Enrique Riquelme. Success under Mourinho could therefore prove crucial for the president’s future. With Morten Hjulmand potentially becoming the first signing of this new era, a transformative summer appears to be on the horizon at the Santiago Bernabeu.