Benfica is preparing to target Marco Silva, currently at Fulham, as their next manager if they lose José Mourinho to Real Madrid. Mourinho, the preferred candidate for Madrid, has had discussions regarding a return to the Bernabéu, where he previously managed successfully.

Although Benfica is reluctant to part ways with the 63-year-old Mourinho, hired last September, they are establishing a contingency plan. Silva, 48, emerges as a viable replacement, especially as Mourinho is expected to agree to a second stint at Madrid, nearly 13 years after his first.

Fulham is eager to retain Silva, offering him a new contract, but he has yet to make a decision about pursuing a new challenge. His achievements with Fulham include:

• Promoting the club to the Premier League in 2022
• Establishing a solid presence in the league

However, Fulham has faced difficulties in maintaining momentum for European qualification. A move to Benfica, currently second to Porto in Portugal, would present Silva with the opportunity to coach in the Champions League.

Meanwhile, Chelsea has also placed Silva on their shortlist as they seek a replacement for Liam Rosenior, who was dismissed last month. Chelsea is prepared to wait until the end of the season for an appointment, reportedly favoring Xabi Alonso as their ideal candidate. Alonso, who guided Bayer Leverkusen to the Bundesliga title in 2024, has been out of work since his recent departure from Madrid and is believed to desire a position in England, having been on Chelsea's radar for three years. Additionally, Liverpool is mentioned as a potential destination should they part ways with Arne Slot.