Portugal want Mourinho – report

(GSM) – Portugal are interested in securing Real Madrid manager José Mourinho’s services for the nation’s upcoming two Euro 2012, according to reports.

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) are hoping to convince Real to let Mourinho coach Portugal for two matches after Carlos Queiroz was dismissed of the managerial post.

Queiroz has received a six-month ban for his aggressive attitude towards anti-doping officials and after a miserable start for the Euro qualifiers – which has seen Porgugal draw 4-4 with Cyprus and lost 1-0 to Norway – the FPF have now turned to Mourinho to take charge of the team for their crucial matches against Denmark and October.

FPF president Gilberto Madail has reportedly flown to Madrid, along with former president Joao Rodrigues, to speak to Mourinho’s agent, Jorge Mendes, about the prospect of an agreement.

Mandail acknowledges that “negotiations will be difficult” as Real Madrid will be unlikely to welcome Mourinho’s handling of other duties.

Former Sporting Lisbon boss Paulo Bento has been tipped to become the new permanent Portugal boss, but he has moved quickly to deny any contact with the FPF.

“I want to make clear that I did not sign any contract nor have I been contacted by someone from the federation,” he said on TVI 24. “I spent the day at home and have not signed anything.”