Real Madrid are exploring a summer move for AZ Alkmaar’s Dutch sensation Kees Smit, according to Diario AS.
Los Blancos manager Xabi Alonso is eyeing a top midfielder in the transfer window, and Smit has emerged as an option.
The 19-year-old recently made the headlines by leading the Netherlands to the European U19 Championship.
He netted four goals and an assist in five games to bag the Player of the tournament award.
After impressing with Jong AZ in the Eerste Divisie, Smit made his breakthrough with the first team last season.
He featured in 18 games in the Eredivisie and bagged a goal and an assist on his Europa League debut against Fenerbahce.
Smit excels in various phases of the game. He carries a significant goal threat, is an excellent passer and is defensively solid.
AZ will try to keep hold of Smit, whose stock has skyrocketed in a short period.
Smit will be tempted by the prospect of playing for Madrid, but the talks are in the early stages.
Los Merengues have been monitoring Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Larsson, but do not see them as feasible options.
Madrid have midfielders Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, Dani Ceballos and Arda Guler in their squad.
However, they do not want to miss out on Smit, who would strengthen their talent pool and be a player for the future.
The Spanish giants have signed Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Franco Mastantuono this summer.
