Real Madrid is preparing for a significant squad transformation this summer, with the club hierarchy identifying the midfield as a priority area for reinforcement.
At the top of Juni Calafat’s shortlist is AZ Alkmaar’s 20-year-old wonderkid, Kees Smit.
After months of scouting, reports from Defensa Central suggest the Dutch prodigy is not only aware of the interest but would be “delighted” to complete a dream move to the Spanish capital in 2026.
The Rise of the “Dutch Pedri”
Kees Smit has seen his stock skyrocket following a standout season in the Eredivisie and a masterful performance at the U19 European Championship, where he was named MVP.
Often compared to Barcelona’s Pedri due to his technical elegance and vision, Smit has become a permanent fixture in the AZ Alkmaar lineup.
Despite the player previously admitting a childhood admiration for Real Madrid’s rivals, FC Barcelona, the current landscape in Catalonia makes a move to the Camp Nou unlikely.
Barcelona’s congested midfield and ongoing financial constraints have effectively handed Real Madrid a “free run” at the young playmaker.
Real Madrid’s Strategic Shift in Midfield
The interest in Smit comes at a time of reflection for the Real Madrid board.
Following recent struggles in the Champions League, including a high-profile loss to Benfica, club officials have privately admitted that the “renewal plan” to replace legends like Toni Kroos and Luka Modric requires further quality.
While heavyweights like Manchester City’s Rodri and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton have been linked to the Bernabeu, Smit represents a more affordable, high-potential long-term project.
The club’s strategy remains focused on securing elite talents under the age of 21 who can anchor the midfield for the next decade.
Pricing and Next Steps
AZ Alkmaar is well aware of the treasure they have in Smit, who is under contract until June 2028. The Dutch club is expected to hold out for a fee between €50 million and €75 million.
Real Madrid is unlikely to make a final decision until after March, as they evaluate the progress of their current youth projects and the potential availability of other targets.
However, with Smit making it clear that the Bernabeu is his preferred destination, the pieces are falling into place for a blockbuster summer transfer.
