AZ Alkmaar starlet reacts to Real Madrid links – ‘Nothing concrete, just interest’ | OneFootball

AZ Alkmaar starlet reacts to Real Madrid links – ‘Nothing concrete, just interest’ | OneFootball

In partnership with

Yahoo sports
Icon: Madrid Universal

Madrid Universal

·14 July 2025

AZ Alkmaar starlet reacts to Real Madrid links – ‘Nothing concrete, just interest’

Article image:AZ Alkmaar starlet reacts to Real Madrid links – ‘Nothing concrete, just interest’

AZ Alkmaar’s 19-year-old midfielder Kees Smit has finally broken his silence about the rumours linking him with a move to Real Madrid.

The Dutch youngster has attracted attention from top European clubs after an outstanding performance at the European Under-19 Championship, where he was voted the tournament’s best player just a month ago.


OneFootball Videos


Real Madrid continue their mission of scouting the best young talent across the world, and Smit is one of the names on their list.

However, in a recent interview with HN Nieuws (h/t Mundo Deportivo), the midfielder shared his honest thoughts about the situation.

Smit flattered but focused on AZ

Smit admitted that the interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona is exciting but says his focus remains on improving at AZ for the time being.

“First, I want to prove here that I can do well and be important.

Article image:AZ Alkmaar starlet reacts to Real Madrid links – ‘Nothing concrete, just interest’

Kees Smit is a Real Madrid fan. (Picturecredit: AS)

The interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid is positive, but if I go there, I don’t know how many times I will play. I enjoyed watching it and reading about it,” Smit explained.

Despite his humble approach, the door is not completely closed. Smit knows that these opportunities don’t come often.

“These are very good things, without a doubt. Perhaps the two biggest clubs in the world are interested in me. Nothing is concrete yet. There’s just interest,” he added.

Real Madrid first showed interest in Smit in late June, and while no official offer has been made, the situation is expected to develop further. However, Los Blancos will face strong competition.

Premier League sides Chelsea and Tottenham are closely monitoring the midfielder, while Bayern Munich, Ajax, RB Leipzig, and Olympique Marseille have also joined the race.

For now, Smit remains focused on his current club, but Real Madrid will be keeping a close eye as they continue to build for the future.

View publisher imprint