The talented 19-year-old Dutch midfielder opens up publicly about interest from the Spanish giants.
Kees Smit made his professional debut with AZ Alkmaar in March 2024 at the age of 18 and has steadily worked his way into the first team. While not yet a regular starter, the teenager has attracted interest from several major European clubs, including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Tottenham, and Bayern Munich.
This summer, Smit played a key role for the Netherlands at the U19 European Championship, helping the Oranje defeat Spain in the final. He was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player for his standout performances.
A central midfielder, Smit is known for his technical skill, close control in tight spaces, and ability to dictate the tempo of a match.
Speaking after his return to the Netherlands, Smit addressed the reported interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona:
“First, I want to prove that I can do well and be important at AZ. The interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona is positive, but if I go there, I don’t know how often I’d play. I enjoyed watching it and reading about it,” he told HN Nieuws. “They’re very good clubs—perhaps the two biggest in the world—but there’s nothing concrete, just interest.”
Smit was recently photographed celebrating in a Real Madrid kit. While a move to the Spanish capital seems unlikely this summer, his profile is one the club continues to monitor closely.
