The search for a midfield maestro to finally fill the void left by Toni Kroos is reaching a fever pitch. While established names like Rodri and Enzo Fernandez continue to dominate the headlines, a new, younger talent has just put Real Madrid on high alert.

AZ Alkmaar’s rising star Kees Smit has officially “opened the door” for a move to La Liga, citing a desire for a change in scenery—and weather.

The Search for the “Next Kroos”

Since the legendary German playmaker retired in 2024, Los Blancos have lacked that specific deep-lying presence capable of dictating the tempo of a match. While our current midfield is packed with athletic powerhouses, the lack of a “metronome”—the kind of player Barcelona has in Pedri—is becoming a clear priority for the upcoming summer window.

“I Love the Sun”: Kees Smit’s La Liga Ambitions

In a recent interview with Supergaande TV in the Netherlands, the 20-year-old Dutchman didn’t hide his affection for Spanish football. When asked about his future, Smit was remarkably candid:

“[I’d like to play in] La Liga. Playing there would be great. I love the sun; I’m tired of playing in so much cold and rain, so I’d love to go and play in Spain.”

While he expressed a deep loyalty to AZ Alkmaar, calling it his “dream” to play there, he admitted that a move within the Netherlands is unlikely, clearing the path for a major European transfer.

A Tug-of-War with Barcelona?

Kees Smit isn’t just a random prospect; he was the Player of the Tournament during the Netherlands’ Under-19 European Championship triumph in 2025. His technical ceiling is massive, attracting interest from Liverpool, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich.

However, there is a catch for Madridistas. Smit revealed he grew up idolizing the “Golden Era” of our rivals:

“I really enjoyed watching Barca. I grew up watching Iniesta and Messi play, who I consider two of my role models.”

Should Real Madrid Strike?

Despite his childhood admiration for the Catalan side, Real Madrid’s pull is second to none. If Florentino Perez views Smit as the long-term successor to the “Control Tower” role, his availability this summer could spark a bidding war.

He offers a different profile than the physical Rodri—a younger, high-upside technician who could thrive under the Bernabéu lights (and the Spanish sun he craves).