Newcastle United are once again being linked with a move for José Mourinho. However, reports from Portugal continue to strongly push back against the idea.
The Premier League side are expected to assess their managerial situation in the summer. This is especially true with Eddie Howe facing scrutiny after an inconsistent season.
That has led to fresh claims in the British press suggesting Mourinho is among the leading candidates to take over.
However, as we have previously covered, the picture emerging from Portugal is once again far more dismissive of that scenario.
Portuguese reports dismiss renewed Newcastle claims
Both O Jogo and Record make it clear that these latest links originate from England. They are not backed by any concrete developments.
The reports reference British coverage claiming Newcastle could move for Mourinho if a change is made this summer, with the Benfica manager placed high on the club’s shortlist. Andoni Iraola is also mentioned as an alternative option being considered.
Crucially, the Portuguese stance is consistent. There has been no approach, and there is no indication from Mourinho’s side that he is entertaining the move.
Instead, this is seen as another recurring cycle of speculation rather than a transfer story with real traction.
Mourinho already planning next season at Benfica
José Mourinho is currently under contract at SL Benfica until 2027. While there is a clause allowing both parties to part ways at the end of the season, that possibility is not shaping his current thinking.
According to the Portuguese reports, Mourinho is already preparing for next season and is fully focused on building a squad capable of winning the league.
That commitment is reflected in another key detail. He is said to be pushing for a contract renewal, signalling a desire to extend his stay rather than leave. Benfica president Rui Costa, for now, does not see urgency in formalising a new deal. However, internal planning is already underway.
This combination of forward planning and contract discussions reinforces the idea that Mourinho’s focus remains firmly in Lisbon.
Context behind Mourinho’s stance
José Mourinho’s position is mostly influenced by how Benfica’s season has unfolded. They are currently third in the league, seven points behind Porto. There are only five matches remaining.
Their campaign has included several setbacks. They were eliminated by Real Madrid in the Champions League playoffs, a while after being battered by Newcastle in the league phase. They also exited the Portuguese Cup against Porto and the League Cup against Braga.
Those results have fallen short of expectations. As a result, next season has taken on greater importance, and Mourinho appears determined to lead that response himself.
What this means for Newcastle United
For Newcastle United, Mourinho’s name is likely to keep appearing while uncertainty remains around Eddie Howe.
However, the contrast between British reports and Portuguese information is stark. In England, the idea is gaining attention. In Portugal, it is being treated as speculation without substance.
As things stand, there is no sign of movement from Mourinho’s side. On the contrary, all indications point towards continuity, with the manager focused on Benfica and even seeking to extend his stay.
That leaves Newcastle looking elsewhere for now, unless something changes significantly in the months ahead.