May 23, 2026

The African Tribune

Bold, independent reporting on Africa's most important stories, in English, every day.

José Mourinho’s real madrid return: vitinha eyed as dream summer signing

Significant changes are anticipated at Real Madrid this summer, with the expected arrival of José Mourinho. To restore the Casa Blanca’s competitive edge, the ‘Special One’ is set to demand several key transfers, some of which present considerable challenges. Among his primary targets is reportedly his compatriot, the pivotal Paris Saint-Germain midfielder, Vitinha.

Following a season devoid of major silverware, Real Madrid is determined to reclaim its position at the pinnacle of European football next season. This new chapter will unfold without Alvaro Arbeloa, who confirmed his departure from the Madrid club in a press conference this Friday, ahead of the final home match of the season against Athletic Bilbao. He expressed his hope that this was merely a temporary farewell, stating, “Real has been my home for twenty years, in various capacities. This will be my last game on the bench this season; I don’t know if it will be the last of my life, as one never knows. But I will try to enjoy it, hoping to secure a victory.”

Mourinho’s madrid comeback imminent

While Alvaro Arbeloa‘s exit was announced this Friday, Real Madrid has not been idle in seeking a successor and planning for the future. For several weeks, the Spanish giants have reportedly been engaged in discussions with one specific individual: José Mourinho. Latest indications suggest that an agreement is already in place, paving the way for the Portuguese manager’s return to Madrid, following his initial tenure from 2010 to 2013.

Mourinho targets Vitinha for midfield strength

Upon his highly anticipated return to Real Madrid, José Mourinho is keen to build a formidable and competitive squad. Consequently, the Spanish club is expected to be exceptionally active in the upcoming summer transfer window. The Madrid leadership is reportedly seeking reinforcements across almost every position, and in the midfield, Vitinha has emerged as a particularly appealing prospect for the Special One. It has been revealed that “Real Madrid would also like a top-tier midfielder, aiming to rebuild the core of the team across defense, midfield, and attack. The ‘Special One’s’ dream would be to bring in another of his compatriots, Vitinha, who is a major protagonist for Paris Saint-Germain. What are the chances of Vitinha leaving PSG? Naturally, they are not high because PSG holds him in very high regard. However, should PSG secure a second Champions League title, it is not inconceivable that he might seek a new challenge.”