Chelsea and Jose Mourinho are ready to conclude talks over new contract with a view to keeping him in charge at Stamford Bridge until 2019.Mourinho’s current deal, thought to be worth £12.5million a year, expires in two years but there is a will from both sides to swiftly agree a two-year extension with improved terms.
The manager will be back in his office at the training ground on Wednesday after two days off following the club’s first Barclays Premier League title triumph in five years.
Chelsea hope contract negotiations can be finalised quickly before they focus on the summer transfer market.
Barcelona striker Pedro Rodriguez has emerged as a possible target as Mourinho attempts to strengthen his squad and build a dynasty at Stamford Bridge.
Ever since returning to London from Real Madrid two years ago, he has insisted that he no longer felt the urge to club-hop in pursuit of personal ambition.
Instead, he came in legacy mode, keen to create something to compare with what Sir Alex Ferguson did at Manchester United.
Mourinho said it would be ‘impossible’ for him to match Sir Alex’s 13 Premier League titles, but he is determined to achieve more at Stamford Bridge.
‘My next move will be if and when Chelsea decides it is time,’ said the 52-year-old, earlier this year, and Roman Abramovich, a visible presence during the run-in, appears delighted.
Transfer business seems set to revolve around signing one or two strikers, a defender and a reserve goalkeeper with Petr Cech expected to leave after 11 years.
Chelsea have declared interest in Barcelona’s Pedro having been made aware of his availability, earlier this year, and they also admire Atletico Madrid’s Antoine Griezmann.
Mourinho is keen on Getafe’s 28-year-old goalkeeper Vicente Guaita, as back-up to Thibaut Courtois, although an English ‘keeper would help them maximise the quota regulations.
Raphael Varane remains a top defensive target it he can be prised out of Real Madrid, but the Chelsea manager, aware that Branislav Ivanovic can operate in central defence, may opt for another full back.
Real left back Fabio Coentrao is back on the radar, with Filipe Luis set to leave Stamford Bridge, probably for a return to Atletico.
Chelsea’s players do not report back until Thursday to start preparations for the game at home to Liverpool on Sunday.
Mourinho, aware of the strain of this campaign on a smallish squad, is planning to give them another four days off next week, before they play at West Bromwich on Monday week.
Oscar will not play any part in the final three games. The Brazilian midfielder damaged a thigh muscle in training last week and will not take part in the Copa America in June.
Filipe Luis and Willian have been selected by Brazil boss Dunga but not Ramires, who has is suffering from a kidney problem.
