Newcastle are eyeing a move to appoint Jose Mourinho to replace Eddie Howe this summer, and his stance on the move has now emerged, according to O Jogo.
The legendary Portuguese coach took over at Benfica earlier this season as he returned to his homeland following a stint with Fenerbahce, with the Eagles currently sitting third in the table, seven points behind his former side Porto.
Mourinho's contract runs until 2027, but it included a clause that allowed either party to break the agreement this summer, which has led to speculation that the former Man Utd, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Inter boss could once again be available, as the Magpies consider making a change in their dugout following a disappointing campaign.
Newcastle Eyeing Mourinho Move
Jose Mourinho Benfica
Newcastle have struggled this season and currently sit 12th in the Premier League following defeat to rivals Sunderland at home before the international break, while they were also humiliated by Barcelona in the Champions League, being eliminated at the Last 16 stage by an 8-3 aggregate score.
That has led to some question marks over the future of Howe, and reports have suggested that the club are eyeing a potential move for the iconic coach to replace him.
However, reports in Portugal are adamant that the 63-year-old will remain with Benfica next season as he wants to win the Portuguese title with them, and there are no plans currently from either party to trigger the break clause in his contract.
Mourinho has also attracted interest from Saudi Arabia, with some offers even being put on the table for him, but he has held talks with Benfica, and they have affirmed their commitment to each other for next season, with more talks planned once the season is complete.
Eddie Howe Deserves Time at Newcastle
Eddie Howe
While Howe has had a tough time this season, it can't be ignored that he has earned them Champions League football in two of the last three seasons and also ended their 70-year trophy drought last year.
A move for Mourinho, who has struggled to make the same type of impact at the top level in recent years, would represent a backwards step for the club, and Howe has done enough to earn himself some time to turn things around.
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT to compare Howe and Mourinho in 2026 for Newcastle, and this was its response:
Eddie Howe
Continuity, strong connection with fans/club culture
High-intensity pressing, suits current squad profile
Proven development of players like Alexander Isak
Ceiling questioned tactically at elite level
José Mourinho
Elite pedigree, serial winner in Europe
Pragmatic, defensive style may clash with squad identity
Could attract top talent instantly
Risk of short-termism and dressing-room friction
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe after losing to West Ham United. Related
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