Real Madrid tracking Kees Smit ahead of summer transfer, Premier League giants also keen

Real Madrid have added AZ Alkmaar’s 20-year-old midfielder Kees Smit to their summer recruitment shortlist, with journalist Fabrizio Romano reporting that the Spanish giants have been monitoring the Dutchman ahead of a potential move. Newcastle United attempted to secure Smit’s signature during the January window but saw their approach rebuffed, and competition for his services is now intensifying.

Smit’s breakout performances at the recent European Under-19 Championship, where he was widely regarded as the tournament’s standout player, have accelerated interest from Europe’s elite. In 19 senior appearances for AZ this season he has contributed three goals and two assists, numbers that only begin to illustrate the qualities that have caught the attention of scouts: a rare blend of physique, technique and in-game intelligence.

Carlo Ancelotti’s squad is expected to undergo midfield restructuring, with Dani Ceballos likely to depart. Madrid’s hierarchy believe Smit’s ability to link midfield and attack with a silky, progressive style could provide the creative spark the engine room currently lacks.

Premier League heavyweights are also circling, but any bidding war will hinge on Smit’s willingness to trade guaranteed minutes at AFAS Stadion for the prestige and pressure of a blockbuster transfer. AZ have placed faith in the youngster, offering him regular Eredivisie football and the stability many prodigies are denied. For a player still refining the nuances that will determine his ceiling, continuity may outweigh glamour.

Smit’s camp are aware that a move to a global powerhouse can stall development through sporadic appearances and serial loan spells. The consensus among talent evaluators is that another season of week-to-week senior football in Alkmaar could prime the midfielder for a future transfer in which he arrives ready, not rushed.

If the youngster maintains his upward trajectory, suitors will remain. The question this summer is whether the pull of Madrid—or England’s richest clubs—proves too strong to resist.