Kees Smit (foto: Uradni FB/TW/IG profil igralca)
AZ Alkmaar expect a record-breaking fee for 19-year-old Kees Smit, with Fabrizio Romano suggesting even €60m may not be enough. Europe’s biggest clubs are interested, including Real Madrid, and Jorge Mendes is involved.
Kees Smit is currently the hottest young name in Dutch football. The 19-year-old AZ Alkmaar midfielder is shining in the Cand has become one of the most sought-after talents in Europe.
Born in 2006, Smit is widely regarded as one of the biggest midfield talents of his generation. Interest from top clubs has existed for months, but with the January window approaching, the rumours have intensified even further.
So far, there is no concrete offer on the table, but according to Fabrizio Romano, that is not surprising at all.
AZ Alkmaar know exactly what kind of gem they have in their squad and are in absolutely no rush to sell.
Romano is convinced that even €60 million will not be enough to convince the Dutch club to let Smit go — not in winter, and possibly not even in the summer.
Everything points to the fact that AZ are aiming for a record-breaking transfer fee for the teenager, which would be the biggest sale in the club’s history.
Among the clubs most strongly linked with Smit is Real Madrid, where Xabi Alonso is said to be a big admirer of the young midfielder. Several Premier League giants are also monitoring his development closely.
With such financially powerful clubs in the race, AZ Alkmaar are in a perfect negotiating position. The club also holds a strong hand because Smit’s contract runs until the summer of 2028, which he signed in 2024.
An additional factor in this story is the involvement of Jorge Mendes. The famous Portuguese super-agent is expected to mediate the deal if and when the transfer happens, which usually means a big move and an even bigger price.
For now, Smit remains focused on AZ, but one thing is becoming increasingly clear: when he moves, he will not come cheap — and the Netherlands could soon witness another historic transfer.