AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit has emerged as one of European football's most sought-after young talents, attracting interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, according to reports in Spain.
The 20-year-old Dutch midfielder is represented by high-profile Portuguese agent Jorge Mendes and holds a market valuation of around 60 million euros. Spanish sports daily As reported that Spain's top three clubs are tracking his situation closely ahead of upcoming transfer windows.
Smit first gained widespread recognition across Europe during the 2023 UEFA Youth League, when AZ Alkmaar won the tournament. He was a key figure in that title-winning campaign alongside teammate Ernest Poku, who has since moved to German Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen.
During that tournament, the Dutch side knocked out Real Madrid's youth team, managed by former defender Alvaro Arbeloa, in the quarter-finals. The loss was the only defeat Real Madrid suffered throughout the entire competition, with Smit delivering a memorable performance at Real Madrid's Valdebebas training complex.
Netherlands national team debate
Smit's impressive club performances sparked public debate in the Netherlands following his exclusion from the national team squad for the World Cup. Dutch supporters and media had widely expected the young midfielder to earn a place in the 26-man selection.
Former Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman favoured players over the age of 23 for his tournament roster. Ajax defender Jorrel Hato was the sole exception to Koeman's unwritten rule, leaving Smit out despite his strong domestic form. Smit did not hide his disappointment at the decision, stating that he had expected something more.
The national team picture has now changed following Koeman's departure. Former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has taken over as head coach of the Netherlands, initiating a new era for players previously left out of international plans and potentially reopening the door for Smit to earn his senior debut.
Spanish transfer interest and club plans
Beyond international football, Smit's immediate future remains focused on potential club moves. While As reported that Premier League teams are keeping tabs on his progress, the player has made it clear that he prefers a move to LaLiga.
Atletico Madrid attempted to sign Smit during the previous winter transfer window, but AZ Alkmaar rejected the proposal. Atletico have since completed the signing of Morten Hjulmand, a midfielder with a similar profile but a more defensive style, which could shift the club's transfer priorities. Meanwhile, Barcelona are currently concentrating their efforts on a deal for Manchester City midfielder Rodri, leaving Smit off their immediate agenda. Real Madrid consider their current squad complete, but continue to keep Smit on their radar without making formal moves at Valdebebas.
With agent Jorge Mendes actively circulating Smit's name among top European executives, the midfielder remains a prominent figure in transfer discussions. Valued at around 60 million euros, his next career move is expected to be one of the key storylines in European football.
