The Portuguese pair worked together at Porto before the manager moved to Chelsea in 2004. Carvalho duly followed that same summer in a deal worth £19.8m and has proved a sturdy foundation ever since.
However, after six years at Stamford Bridge the defender has revealed his desire to move on, claiming that he would go 'swimming or running' to the Bernabeu if his former mentor came calling.
And it seems the feeling is mutual. When pushed on Spanish TV as to the likelihood of a deal, Mourinho said: 'I always said that Carvalho is one of the best in the world. We'll see what happens.'
Carvalho, who turned 32 in May, has seen his place in the Chelsea come under-threat from the younger Alex and Branislav Ivanovic.
Mourinho, though, is unconcerned by the player's advancing years.
'He is in the period of his greatest maturity,' he added.
Carvalho sat out the second part of last season with ankle ligament damage as Chelsea romped to their first ever 'Double'.
He said earlier this month that an agreement was in place with Chelsea that allows him to find a new club this summer.
'If there was a possibility to sign for Madrid, I would go there right now swimming or running,' he said. 'It would be a dream to be able to play for Madrid, which for me is the best club in the world.
'Chelsea have a commitment with me to let me go this summer, for reasons which those responsible at the club and I know.'
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