Even though Real Madrid are gearing up for a major squad overhaul in the coming summer, their biggest task right now is to appoint a new manager for the season ahead.
The Spanish giants have been linked with a move for a host of top managers across the world, with Jurgen Klopp and Jose Mourinho emerging as two favourites.
Klopp is currently working in the Red Bull franchise, whereas Mourinho has a contract with SL Benfica. But it appears a clear favourite has finally emerged among the two.
Klopp out; Mourinho in?
According to a report from Defensa Central, the Klopp option is fading with each passing day. The German has no intention of terminating his long-term contract with Red Bull, with his plan being to manage the German national team.
After years at the top level, his body and mind needed a break, and barring a radical change of plans, he will not be coming to Madrid.
Mourinho looks likely to become the next Real Madrid manager. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
That leaves Mourinho as the leading candidate. His good relationship with president Florentino Perez, maintained throughout all these years, works strongly in his favour.
He knows the club, knows the dressing room, and his track record speaks for itself.
Real Madrid want to finalise the appointment as soon as possible once the season ends. Waiting for Pochettino or Deschamps, both of whom will be occupied with the World Cup, is not an attractive option.
Mourinho’s release clause at Benfica expires at the end of the month, bringing him closer than ever to a return to the Bernabeu. It would be 4,777 days since his last match in charge of Real Madrid, on June 1, 2013.
However, both sides have remained reluctant to confirm anything, with Mourinho even admitting that there have been no talks.