Real Madrid to compete with Barcelona in race to sign Dutch super talent – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid have been one of the most active teams in the transfer market so far, bringing in not one but four new faces ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, with Alvaro Carreras becoming the most recent addition.

However, Los Blancos are not yet done in the transfer market and are still on the lookout for talents who can still improve the team.

Following the arrival of Xabi Alonso as head coach, Real Madrid are particularly keeping tabs on young players with a high growth potential.

Real Madrid eye move for Kees Smit

To that end, a recent report from MARCA suggests that Los Blancos are among the clubs interested in the services of Dutch midfield prodigy Kees Smit.

Smit, who plays for AZ Alkmaar, is emerging as one of the Netherlands’ finest young midfielders in years.

Xabi Alonso could use someone like Kees Smit in the team. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

A technically gifted playmaker, the 19-year-old recently stole the spotlight at the UEFA U19 European Championship, where he finished as both top scorer and MVP, helping the Netherlands win the tournament for the first time in their history.

Real Madrid have taken notice of his performances, with the club’s scouts tracking his development closely.

Smit is admired for his composure on the ball, vision, and ability to carry possession forward under pressure, which should make him an ideal fit for Xabi Alonso’s tactical setup.

However, Madrid will not have it easy in the race. Barcelona are also very interested, and Smit’s known admiration for Andrés Iniesta could sway his decision.

Not to mention, a series of other top European clubs, including Bayern Munich, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Ajax are also interested in his services.

Fortunately for Real Madrid, Smit is not considering leaving Alkmaar now, knowing he may not receive regular game-time at a bigger club.