Real Madrid’s mission to inject fresh creativity into the heart of the Bernabeu has led them to the Eredivisie. According to the latest reports from Fichajes, Los Blancos have officially moved for AZ Alkmaar’s “brilliant” midfield sensation, Kees Smit, submitting an opening offer of approximately €50 million.
However, the road to the 19-year-old’s signature is becoming increasingly crowded. Chelsea have reportedly entered the fray, threatening to turn this into a high-stakes financial bidding war that includes Premier League giants Liverpool and Arsenal.
The €10m Gap: Will Florentino Increase the Bid?
While Madrid have made the first concrete move, AZ Alkmaar are holding out for a “historic” fee. The Dutch side has reportedly valued their academy product at €60 million.
At €50m, Madrid’s opening gambit falls just short of that valuation. With Chelsea involved—a club notorious for “pushing financial limits” since May 2022—Florentino Perez may need to move quickly to bridge the €10m gap before the Londoners can hijack the deal.
Who is Kees Smit?
Often compared to Barcelona’s Pedri for his vision and ball-playing composure, Smit has become a mainstay in the Netherlands this season.
2025/26 Season Stats (All Competitions):
- Appearances: 31
- Goals: 3
- Assists: 5
- Key Traits: Versatility across the pivot, high energy, and elite progressive passing.
Why Madrid Need Him
The “summer rebuild” is no longer just a rumor; it is a necessity. Madrid have lacked a consistent creative spark in the middle of the park this season, and while PSG’s Vitinha is also on the shortlist, his €100m+ price tag makes Smit a much more attractive and fiscally responsible “Plan A.”
The lure of the Bernabeu remains unmatched, but Chelsea are reportedly trying to turn Smit’s head with the promise of immediate, “regular game time” within their youthful project.
The Bottom Line
Madrid currently lead the race, but with three English heavyweights—Chelsea, Arsenal, and Liverpool—circling, the pressure is on. If Smit is truly the “brilliant” missing piece for our midfield, Madridistas will be hoping Perez closes the deal before the Premier League’s deep pockets take over.