Barcelona and Real Madrid express interest in signing young Dutch midfield prodigy | OneFootball

Kees Smit is slowly emerging as the Netherlands’ most talented midfield prodigy since Frenkie de Jong.

At the age of just 19, Smit has shown exceptional talent and immense potential, plying his trade for AZ Alkmaar.

The youngster has already racked up 31 competitive appearances for Alkmaar’s senior team, with top European clubs lining up to acquire his services.

Barcelona and Real Madrid also interested

According to MARCA, Barcelona and Real Madrid are among the clubs interested in acquiring the services of the Dutch midfield talent.

This comes on the back of the youngster’s stellar performances at the UEFA U19 European Championship, where he dominated with four goals and was named both MVP and top scorer.

While clubs like Chelsea, Tottenham, Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Ajax have also expressed interest, it is Smit’s admiration for Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta that makes the Catalan club an appealing destination.

Can Kees Smit become the next Frenkie de Jong? (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Indeed, the AZ midfielder models much of his game on the Spanish great, while also drawing comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his vision, close control, and ability to dictate play.

Put simply, Smit’s style of play perfectly suits Barcelona’s DNA – a technical midfielder who thrives in tight spaces, carries the ball with intent, and excels in linking up with forwards in the final third.

His ability to arrive late in the box and contribute goals further adds to his profile, making him a solid tactical option in the middle of the park.

Barcelona, still navigating financial restrictions, would ideally want to position themselves early in the race for his signature, especially with the player already making a mark in the Eredivisie.

However, a move may not be imminent as Smit himself has admitted that he won’t get to play much if he leaves AZ now.