FootballTransfers reported that Real Madrid decided not to sign AZ midfielder Kees Smit in the summer, and the 20-year-old has signed a contract extension tying him to the club until 2030.
Real Madrid's monitoring
FootballTransfers reported that Real Madrid extensively scouted Smit and were believed to be keenly watching his development, frequently dispatching scouts to the Netherlands and monitoring him. FootballTransfers also reported that Real Madrid did not make a formal offer for Smit in the summer, and that no club made a formal offer for him.
Smit's progress at AZ
Smit made his first-team debut for AZ in early 2024. FootballTransfers reported that he has been a mainstay in the team since 2025. Last season was his first as a guaranteed starter, and he produced five goals and 10 assists. He also made his senior Netherlands debut in March.
Writing for FootballTransfers' Dutch edition, Eredivisie expert Dylan ter Laak pointed out: "Smit seems - provided he is fit - assured of a starting place at AZ."
Extension and transfer context
FootballTransfers reported that Smit has signed a two-year contract extension with AZ, tying him to the club until 2030. FootballTransfers also reported that AZ set a €60 million asking price for Smit.
FootballTransfers reported that Newcastle expressed an interest in Smit but signed Sean Steur from Ajax instead. FootballTransfers also reported that AZ reportedly recruited Jorge Mendes in order to get a transfer over the line, as €60m would have been transformative money for the club.
Ter Laak's view
Ter Laak added: "The talented midfielder can thus continue to develop in peace in Alkmaar. This season he can take further steps and possibly reach the level required to succeed at the top of European football as well."
Ter Laak added: "Because Smit possesses a lot of potential, there is also the possibility that he will become even more decisive and important for AZ during the season."
Ter Laak added: "Last season, according to SciSports data, he was among the best-performing midfielders in the Eredivisie. This shows, at the very least, that Smit possesses the required level to be a decisive player in the Eredivisie."