Real Madrid set to intensify scouting efforts for 19-year-old Dutch prodigy – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s season opener is fast approaching, with Xabi Alonso’s side set to host Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday in the first fixture of La Liga 2025/26.

While the immediate focus remains on the present, the club’s long-term planning continues under president Florentino Perez.

Real Madrid to continue scouting Kees Smit

With that strategy in mind, Real Madrid are set to step up their scouting efforts for Dutch midfield prodigy Kees Smit, reports Defensa Central.

The 19-year-old AZ Alkmaar talent is widely regarded as one of the brightest talents in Dutch football and is currently under close observation at Valdebebas.

Now, it is being claimed that Real Madrid will further intensify their scouting of the midfielder this year. Depending on his development, the 19-year-old could become a transfer target next summer.

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Later today, AZ face Volendam in the second round of the Eredivisie at the Kras Stadion. Real Madrid will have a scout present at the match to follow Smit closely, monitoring both his performance and behaviour on the pitch.

There were talks of a move for the teenage talent this summer itself, but Los Blancos seem to have decided not to make a move for now.

However, the Spanish capital giants will continue to monitor Smit closely throughout the year before deciding whether to rope him in from AZ in the summer of 2026.

The teenage prospect, for his part, is understood to be very open to the idea of playing for Real Madrid. And, if he continues to make an impression on the field, a transfer next year could become reality.