Fulham manager Marco Silva is reportedly on the verge of an agreement to take the helm at Portuguese club Benfica. The 48-year-old manager has yet to accept a contract renewal offer from Fulham, with his current deal at Craven Cottage set to expire this month.

Managerial Succession at Benfica

Sources indicate that discussions between Silva and Benfica have advanced significantly, suggesting a deal is close to being finalized. Benfica is actively seeking a replacement for Jose Mourinho, who has departed the Portuguese club. Mourinho has recently signed a three-year contract to become the new head coach of Real Madrid, pending the outcome of their presidential elections scheduled for Sunday.

Mourinho’s Recent Tenure

Mourinho, 63, returned to Benfica for a second stint in September. During his tenure, he guided the team to a third-place finish in the Primeira Liga without suffering any league defeats.

Fulham’s Season and Silva’s Tenure

Fulham concluded the most recent Premier League season in 11th place, accumulating 52 points, the same total as Chelsea. Prior to Xabi Alonso’s appointment, Silva was reportedly considered a candidate to succeed Liam Rosenior at another club.

Marco Silva joined Fulham in July 2021, having previously managed Everton. In his first season with the Cottagers, he successfully guided the team back to the Premier League after their relegation to the Championship the year before. If Silva departs, Fulham would become the fifth Premier League club in search of a new manager shortly after the season’s conclusion.