Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has confirmed the signing of a star defender and the return of legendary manager Jose Mourinho to the Bernabeu, if he manages to retain his presidency.
Speaking ahead of the Real Madrid presidential elections following a trophyless season, the 79-year-old Perez revealed that defender Ibrahima Konate, currently with Liverpool, and Mourinho will join the club next season should he remain in charge.
The deal would see the 27-year-old French star move to the Spanish capital as a free agent once his time at Anfield comes to an end.
In an interview with Diario AS, as quoted by Goal.com, Perez stated that Konate would not be the only top prospect signed by the club if he stays.
“We are working on all these signings.
I can assure you that if I remain president of Real Madrid, one of the world’s top defenders, Konate, will be playing for Real Madrid from next season onwards. And he would not be the only top defender to join us if I stay at the helm of Real Madrid,” he was quoted as saying.
The incumbent president also confirmed that Mourinho, who managed the club from 2010 to 2013 and won a La Liga title, is the man chosen to return to the dugout as manager.
“Mourinho is one of the world’s great coaches and he was very important for Real Madrid during his time with us. He was the coach of that famous record-breaking league season. He brought the team to very high levels of competitiveness and that was very important for everything that was achieved afterwards. Mourinho and Konate are my first signings.”
What About Los Blancos Stars?
Perez also addressed the future of current superstar Vinicius Junior, amid rumours about his possible departure from the club. Perez said that “Vinicius wants to stay at Madrid and he wants him to stay”, with one year still remaining on his contract.
“Vini is one of the best players in the world, and he is delighted to be a Madrid player. He was decisive in winning the last two European Cups, and he has one year left on his contract. There is still time, but I tell you Vinicius wants to stay at Madrid and I want him to stay,” he added.
(With inputs from Agencies)
