FORTRESS JOSE
No, not Old Trafford. But the £3.9m castle he might be buying
MAN United’s new boss Jose Mourinho may become king of his own £3.9million castle. The Portuguese manager, 53, twice visited Castell Gyrn before signing a three- year £ 45million deal to be United’s manager, say locals. If the self-professed Special One wants a special home, the secluded six-bedroom castle in 45 acres of land may fit the bill. Cars driving up to the fortress near Ruthin, Denbighsire, are greeted by a wooden sculpture of a huge Welsh dragon that breathes fire. Locals are excited by the prospect of having the sacked Chelsea boss, who has replaced FA Cup winning manager Louis van Gaal, as a neighbour.
A source said: “He’ll be made very welcome by the local community if he comes to Castell Gyrn. It is unique.
“He could come to our village show if he is not too busy with his football.”
A staff member at nearby Clwyd Gate restaurant said: “It’d be great if he moved here, it’d give the area a real lift. Apparently he has visited the place twice to have a look.”
The four-storey castle in rolling countryside looks 200 years old but was only built 40 years ago. It has a cinema room, library and a butler’s pantry, as well as planning permission to add an extension for leisure facilities including an infinity pool. Its 12-sided castellated tower has stunning views across the Clwyd valley with Snowdon in the distance. There are also five bathrooms and several reception rooms as well as a separate lodge and a twobedroom cottage with its own drive from the road. It is currently owned by businessman Jeff Thompson. When he put it on the market he said: “It’s a beautiful spot and we have fantastic views, some of the best in North Wales.” He did not respond to requests for comment about the viewings.