Journalist drops huge bombshell regarding Real Madrid target – ‘Could terminate contract for a few hundred thousand’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid could be presented with an unexpected transfer opportunity involving Kees Smit, a midfielder who has been on their radar as part of their long-term rebuild.

Strengthening the midfield remains a clear priority for Madrid, with profiles like Enzo Fernandez and Rodri being monitored. 

However, Smit continues to feature on their shortlist as a younger, high-potential option.

Earlier indications suggested that signing the AZ Alkmaar talent would require a major financial commitment. 

Figures between €40 million and €45 million were already considered insufficient, with expectations that the final price could exceed €50 million.

That situation, however, may now be shifting.

What’s the story?

Dutch journalist Arno Vermeulen has highlighted a potential scenario where AZ’s negotiating position could backfire. 

He warned that inflating the player’s valuation too much could lead to an unexpected outcome, explaining, 

“Whether it’s €60 million, €50 million or €40million: if AZ set the price too high… they may end up having to settle for a lower figure,” he said (h/t SPORT).

Kees Smit could leave AZ Alkmaar in the summer. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

He then delivered a warning regarding the risks involved, stating, “If AZ ask for too much money, Smit could leave for a few hundred thousand.”

The reasoning behind this possibility lies in recent legal developments in European football. 

Vermeulen pointed to the impact of the so-called Diarra case, which has strengthened players’ rights in contractual disputes and opened the door for exits through arbitration.

“The European court has ruled. The focus is on the worker. If the player does not see his situation as viable, he can go to arbitration,” he explained.

This creates a scenario where Smit could potentially force his way out if an agreement is not reached, significantly lowering the transfer cost.

Vermeulen reinforced that possibility by explaining the extreme outcome. 

“He could terminate his contract for a few hundred thousand and leave on a free transfer to clubs such as Manchester United, Manchester City, Real Madrid or Barcelona.”

For Real Madrid, this represents a major opportunity. Instead of committing a huge transfer fee, the club could wait and capitalise on the situation if tensions between the player and the club escalate.