Chelsea ready to challenge Real Madrid for the signing of €60m-rated Dutch star – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s pursuit of young talent has often given them an advantage in the transfer market, but this time, they could face serious competition from the Premier League. 

A new report suggests that Chelsea are now preparing to challenge Los Blancos for one of the most promising midfielders in Dutch football.

A recent report from Fichajes has explained that Chelsea have entered the race to sign highly-rated Real Madrid target Kees Smit in an attempt to lure the signing of the new Dutch sensation.

The 20-year-old midfielder has become one of the standout performers at AZ Alkmaar this season. 

Understandably, Smit is seen as the engine of the team, thanks to his ability to control the tempo, win duels, and influence games in both halves of the pitch. 

As such, his rise has not gone unnoticed, with major clubs across Europe beginning to track his development closely.

Interest across Europe

Barcelona and Bayern Munich are also said to be monitoring the situation, while Real Madrid have stepped up their interest in recent months. 

Scouts from the Spanish giants have been following his progress, and the club is believed to see him as a potential long-term addition to their midfield.

Chelsea have entered the race for Kees Smit. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Chelsea, however, are determined not to fall behind. Their idea is either to integrate them into the first team under their current system or increase their value for future profits.

According to the report, Real Madrid have already made an initial approach worth around €50 million. 

AZ Alkmaar, though, are said to value their rising star at closer to €60 million, which could lead to a bidding war between the interested clubs.

What now?

Chelsea’s board is aware of Madrid’s interest but are reportedly ready to stretch their financial limits if needed. 

The Premier League side believes their spending power could help them outmanoeuvre the Spanish giants if negotiations become intense.

Still, overtaking Real Madrid in such situations is never simple, as the Spanish club have a strong reputation for identifying and securing top prospects before they fully explode on the world stage. 

Even so, Chelsea’s financial strength means this transfer battle could remain open until the final stages.