Ikhtisar Heart of Lions

Jose Mourinho has reportedly already identified his first major transfer target in the form of Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand as he prepares for a sensational return to Real Madrid. The Portuguese tactician, who is set to replace the departing Alvaro Arbeloa, is also exploring a backroom shake-up that could see club legend Toni Kroos join his coaching staff.

Alvaro Arbeloa has confirmed his departure from Real Madrid after only four months in charge of the first team. The former defender thanked the club and players for their support as reports continue to link Jose Mourinho with a return to the Bernabeu.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has issued a defiant response to Florentino Perez, describing the Real Madrid chief’s recent accusations regarding the Negreira case as "grotesque." The Blaugrana leader suggested that the explosive claims from the capital are merely a smokescreen to distract from Los Blancos' lack of silverware over the last two seasons.

Real Madrid are set to reappoint their former coach Jose Mourinho. Is it worth backing the 63-year-old to deliver silverware a second time around?