Man Utd target says YES to 2026 transfer

Manchester United target Kees Smit is reportedly eager to complete a move to Real Madrid this summer.

The AZ Alkmaar starlet has emerged as one of Europe’s most talented teenagers over the past 12 months and his development is being closely watched by a number of elite clubs across the continent.

Chelsea, Liverpool, Man Utd and Newcastle United are all keen to bring him to the Premier League in 2026, but Real Madrid are also firmly in the race to secure his signature as Xabi Alonso’s side chase a new central midfielder.

Smit won the Player of the Tournament award at last summer’s U19 European Championship after playing a key role in the Netherlands’ victory, while he has continued his excellent form over the past few months.

The 19-year-old has scored two goals and provided five assists in 27 matches across all competitions so far this campaign, and he is widely expected to leave AZ Alkmaar when the 2026 summer transfer window opens.

Kees Smit to join Real Madrid?

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Smit is unlikely to depart the club in January, but the Dutchman has now said “yes” to joining Real Madrid this summer.

That is according to Spanish publication Defensa Central, who report that Smit is determined to complete a move to Los Blancos if they are able to finalise an agreement with AZ.

It’s claimed that Smit is likely to cost around €45 million this summer, although AZ could opt to increase their asking price if he continues to excel for the remainder of the campaign.

The Netherlands U21 international has been earmarked as Real Madrid’s priority midfield target for 2026, however the club are also reportedly keeping close tabs on the likes of Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea) and Angelo Stiller (Stuttgart).

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