Kees Smit has emerged as one of the most exciting young midfielders in European football, with Real Madrid and Barcelona both linked with the Dutch wonderkid. The 20-year-old AZ Alkmaar midfielder has attracted attention with his technical ability, versatility and impressive rise through Dutch football. While reports suggest both Spanish giants have monitored his situation, AZ's high valuation and the competition for midfield places could make any transfer complicated.
Who Is Kees Smit?
Born on January 20, 2006, in Heiloo, Netherlands, Smit stands at 1.82m and plays as a midfielder for AZ Alkmaar. He joined the club's academy at just nine years old in 2015 and quickly established himself as one of its most promising prospects. He even became the youngest member of AZ's under-12 squad before progressing through the academy ranks.
Smit signed his first professional contract in January 2021 and made his professional debut for Jong AZ against Helmond Sport in January 2023. His breakthrough continued during the 2023 UEFA Youth League, where AZ defeated both Barcelona and Real Madrid on the way to the semi-finals. Smit scored a memorable long-range goal against Barcelona before helping AZ win the competition's final 5-0 against Hajduk Split.
Kees Smit Style of Play Analysis
Kees Smit is a versatile, technically gifted midfielder whose game combines creativity, ball progression and defensive intensity. Primarily a central midfielder, he can also operate as an attacking or defensive midfielder in systems such as 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1. His ability to use both feet effectively makes him particularly difficult to predict, allowing him to play accurate short and long passes while also creating shooting opportunities with either foot.
One of Smit's biggest strengths is his ability to progress the ball. He is comfortable receiving possession centrally, driving forward with the ball and combining with teammates through one-twos, lay-offs, one-touch passes and through balls. When positioned wider, he can take on defenders himself before either shooting or delivering for teammates. His excellent ball control, agility and balance also help him maintain possession under pressure.
Smit is not simply an attacking midfielder, either. His positioning and anticipation allow him to intercept passes, make standing tackles and press aggressively when his team loses possession. He is energetic in midfield and actively looks to regain the ball.
There are still areas for improvement. Smit can sometimes carry the ball for too long instead of releasing it earlier, while his stamina management, decision-making and aerial ability require further development. Nevertheless, his combination of offensive and defensive qualities gives him the profile of a modern all-round midfielder. Overall, his style is similar to players such as Tijjani Reijnders and Enzo Fernández.
Why Are Real Madrid Interested?
Real Madrid's interest makes sense when considering Smit's profile. He is a technically gifted midfielder capable of progressing the ball, combining with teammates and contributing in the final third.
His European experience has also come at a remarkably young age. Smit made his Europa League debut against Fenerbahçe in November 2024, scoring one goal and assisting another in AZ's 3-1 victory. He later scored in AZ's 5-1 KNVB Cup final victory over NEC in April 2026.
Real Madrid have reportedly followed Smit for some time. However, the latest situation is less straightforward, with reports suggesting Madrid currently consider their squad largely complete unless departures create room for another midfield signing. AZ's reported asking price, around €60 million in recent reports, is another major factor.
Why Barcelona Want Kees Smit
Barcelona's interest is perhaps even more understandable. Smit's technical style and ability to operate between the lines fit naturally with the club's traditional midfield philosophy.
The Dutchman has also spoken positively about playing in La Liga and has previously indicated a preference for Barcelona over Real Madrid. Former Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has compared some of Smit's qualities to Pedri, highlighting his turns, use of both feet and vision.
Barcelona's midfield situation could further increase the appeal. The club has several established midfielders, but long-term squad planning means a technically gifted young player such as Smit could represent an investment for the future.
International Rise
Smit's development has not been limited to club football. He represented the Netherlands at U16, U17, U18 and U19 levels before moving to the U21 team. At the 2025 UEFA European Under-19 Championship, he helped the Netherlands win the tournament for the first time and was named Player of the Tournament.
He subsequently made his senior Netherlands debut on March 27, 2026, starting in a 2-1 friendly victory over Norway.
The Next Step for Smit
Kees Smit has already progressed from AZ academy prospect to established first-team midfielder and senior Netherlands international. With Real Madrid and Barcelona watching his development, the next major decision of his career could arrive soon.
For now, AZ remains in control of his future, while Smit's combination of technical quality, youth-level success and growing senior experience makes him one of the most intriguing Dutch talents to watch in European football.
