According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid finalized the deal in just 36 hours. Silva also agreed to personal terms before signing a two-year contract, with an option for an additional season.

Mourinho specifically sought to sign Silva, personally driving the transfer and securing the agreement of his Portuguese compatriot.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola embraces Silva as the Portuguese player leaves the field during a Premier League match between Manchester City and Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England on 24/5. Photo: *AFP*.

Spanish media, including Marca and AS, corroborated this information. They reported that Mourinho proposed Silva after his return to manage Real. The club's board swiftly approved the move, as the 31-year-old midfielder was available on a free transfer after 9 years with Manchester City.

If finalized, Silva will be Real's third new signing of the summer transfer window, following center-back Ibrahima Konate and full-back Denzel Dumfries.

Silva had received offers from Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in the past two weeks. However, Real Madrid's involvement completely altered the situation. The Bernabeu club acted more decisively than its rivals, ultimately persuading the Portuguese player.

Another factor in Silva's decision was his desire to return to the Iberian Peninsula after nearly a decade in England. Madrid presented an ideal destination, offering proximity to his homeland and continued competition for major European titles.

According to AS, Real was initially unenthusiastic about signing Silva. His agent, Jorge Mendes, and the player had approached the Royal club, but received no positive response. The situation shifted only after Mourinho took over as coach, demanding experienced players who could make an immediate impact. The 63-year-old coach shares an agent with Silva, which facilitated the deal for Real.

Following a trophy-less season, Mourinho expressed a preference for immediate impact over long-term projects. He prioritized players with proven class at the highest level and a winning mentality, criteria Silva fully meets.

At Manchester City, Pep Guardiola consistently trusted the Portuguese midfielder. Silva secured numerous major titles, including the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup. His versatility across midfield and on both wings ensured his crucial role in the Manchester City squad for years.

Real Madrid anticipates Silva's experience and stability will add depth to the midfield during the team's transition phase. His presence also provides Mourinho with additional tactical options, complementing attacking stars like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.

If the transfer is announced as expected, Silva will reunite with Mbappe. The two players previously played together at Monaco during the 2016-2017 season, a period when the Principality club gained prominence by reaching the Champions League semi-finals and winning Ligue 1. Following that season, Mbappe transferred to PSG, and Silva joined Manchester City.

By Hoang An (based on Marca, AS)