Real Madrid is already meticulously charting its course for the future, anticipating the eventual transition beyond its celebrated midfield maestros. The club’s scouting network has been quietly and diligently assessing potential successors, seeking not just talent, but a player capable of defining a new era at the Santiago Bernabéu.
While established stars like Vitinha, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, and Adam Wharton have all drawn admiration, a different name has steadily climbed to the forefront of Real Madrid’s internal discussions: Kees Smit of AZ Alkmaar. These seasoned players represent proven quality, but the club is now prioritizing the discovery of the next midfield sensation before their value skyrockets.
Smit, a 19-year-old, first captured the attention of Madrid’s scouts during the 2022-23 UEFA Youth League. His composure under pressure, intelligent positioning, and ability to control the tempo of play against formidable academy sides immediately marked him as a prospect to watch.
His subsequent development at AZ Alkmaar has only solidified the club’s conviction. Real Madrid views Smit as a distinctly modern central midfielder – comfortable receiving the ball in tight spaces, adept at driving play forward, and possessing a tactical maturity that belies his age.
Despite the presence of Eduardo Camavinga, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Federico Valverde, Real Madrid understands the importance of proactive planning. The club has a history of successfully identifying and nurturing future midfield leaders, and Smit is now considered a key part of that long-term vision.
However, securing Smit’s signature won’t be easy. Several prominent clubs from the Premier League and Bundesliga are also closely monitoring his progress, anticipating a fierce battle for his services. AZ Alkmaar, a club renowned for developing and selling young talent, is under no immediate pressure to sell and will undoubtedly demand a substantial fee.
From a financial perspective, Smit represents a more strategic investment than pursuing established stars like Fernández or Mac Allister, whose price tags and contract situations present significant hurdles. While those players remain on the radar, Smit offers a compelling blend of potential and value.
For now, Real Madrid is maintaining a watchful eye, meticulously gathering data and scouting reports. This is a long-term project, a deliberate and patient approach focused on identifying the future of their midfield, rather than seeking a quick fix.
