Last updated: Dec 27, 2025, 8:40 am
AZ does not plan to say goodbye to Kees Smit in 2026. The super talent from Heiloo may only leave if he makes an insane offer, top clubs such as Real Madrid, FC Barcelona and Manchester United have been told.
At the age of nineteen, Smit has become an indispensable part of the AZ base. Only four times this season did he not appear at the kick-off of a match for the Alkmaarders.
Moreover, when Smit plays, he usually makes an impression. A number of top clubs have also noticed this. The young midfielder is already a serious target for Newcastle United in January.
AZ has no plans to let its crown jewel leave next year, it assures The Athletic. A transfer in the coming winter transfer period is not negotiable as far as the club is concerned.
In the summer, Smit can only leave for the absolute top price: AZ is only willing to talk if an offer of sixty million euros is made. The question is whether that price tag will act as a deterrent for the clubs on the ropes, including Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Manchester United, Newcastle United and Borussia Dortmund.
Smit himself wants to take a step in the foreseeable future, he recently told us The Telegraph. He wants to earn a record amount for the club that made him great by 2027 at the latest.
“I think six months, or a year and a half,” Smit answers when asked how long he will play for AZ. “After that, I hope I have made a nice step.” How much should he yield? “Around thirty million euros? Then I will be the highest outgoing transfer from AZ. That is my goal.”
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