Jose Mourinho could be set to do battle with former club Real Madrid over the signing of Benfica midfielder Nemanja Matic, Metro reports.

Matic, who left Stamford Bridge two years ago, has been targeted by Mourinho as the Portuguese prepares to add to his squad for next season.

And with John Obi Mikel's future at Chelsea still uncertain, Matic could prove the perfect replacement.

The 24-year-old impressed for Benfica in last season’s Europa League, where he put in an eye-catching display in his side’s final defeat to Chelsea at the Amsterdam Arena.

But his form has not gone unnoticed across Europe, with Real Madrid thought to be ready to challenge the Blues for the Serbian’s signature.