The Real Madrid coach left Chelsea in 2007 following a trophy-laden three-year stay but last month hinted that he would be open to joining a club where he is "loved" when he leaves Spain.

Widespread reports have claimed that Mourinho has already agreed a return and Benitez has now fuelled speculation that owner Roman Abramovich could be ready to appoint the Portuguese when he departs Stamford Bridge.
 
"You know that the next year it will be another manager here. I think everybody knows who," he said.
 
However, despite Benitez's claims to the contrary, Mourinho insisted in his Tuesday press conference that his future is not yet decided.
 
"I have thought about staying in Real Madrid. I have thought about this," he said. 
 
"Fans think what you (media) sell, I don´t want any doubt about me trying to force my way out of the club. I will get money in Real Madrid up to the last day I will work, I don´t want one extra euro, just whatever I earn up to that day."
 
The former Porto boss quit the London club in 2007 amid reports that his relationship with Abramovich, who has overseen the sacking of nine managers, had deteriorated beyond repair.
 
The 50-year-old went on to lead Inter to Coppa Italia, Serie A and UEFA Champions League success in the 2009-10 campaign before leaving to join Real.
 
He has subsequently won one Liga title and one Copa del Rey since taking over at the Bernabeu.