Jose Mourinho is a genuine contender for Rafa Benitez's job at Liverpool, it has been revealed.

The Mail on Sunday says the former Chelsea manager has made it known to the Liverpool hierarchy that he would be very interested in taking over if they decided to dispense with the services of the Spaniard, who is under pressure despite being allowed to spend £6.5 million on Martin Skrtel last week, a club record for a defender.

Mourinho has a long-held affection for Liverpool and believes he can end the team's 19-season wait to win the league title.

Although Liverpool supporters are still backing Benitez, the Portuguese Mourinho - who has been linked with Barcelona and AC Milan since he turned down the chance to manage England - would be a popular choice with the Kop if the job became available.