Former Nigeria international John Utaka has advised fellow striker Victor Osimhen to join Real Madrid if José Mourinho returns as head coach.
Utaka's comments were published by Nigerian broadcaster Brila Media on May 14, in response to reports linking Mourinho with the Spanish club. Utaka said Osimhen should go if Mourinho has requested him because it would show genuine interest, adding that Madrid offers the trophies the striker wants.
The remarks follow growing reports in Spain and Nigeria linking Mourinho with a second spell at the Bernabéu. The 63-year-old Portuguese, currently in charge of Benfica, is described as the frontrunner to replace interim coach Álvaro Arbeloa after a difficult season that saw Madrid lose 2-0 to Barcelona and finish well off the title pace.
Spanish media report that an agreement is close and that Madrid could trigger Mourinho's release clause, valid until May 26. Reports also identify Osimhen, 27, who plays for Galatasaray, as Mourinho's preferred centre-forward. The Nigerian has scored 22 goals and provided eight assists this season, with Galatasaray reportedly valuing him at around €150 million.