Kees Smit in the penalty shoot out during a match between Boca Juniors and AZ Alkmaar. (Photo by Daniel Jayo/Getty Images)

Tottenham to battle Real Madrid and Barcelona for playmaker who is the 'real deal'

Originally posted on the Boy Hotspur | Last updated Oct 25, 2025 3:00 AM ET

Tottenham Hotspur are among the clubs interested in signing the AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit.

The 19-year-old is highly rated across Europe, and several clubs are monitoring his progress. Along with Tottenham, Newcastle, and Chelsea are keeping tabs on him as well. European heavyweights like Real Madrid and Barcelona are considering a move for him in the future.

Smit is regarded as one of the finest young talents in European football right now, and he’s expected to develop into a top-class player. He has been likened to Kevin De Bruyne because of his style of play.

Kees Smit is an elite talent

Graeme Bailey said to TBR Football: “Talking to scouts in Europe, there are not many more names that create as much excitement as Smit.

“Many clubs believe Smit is the real deal and from what I am being told there is a very good chance he moves next year.”

It will be interesting to see if Tottenham can get the deal done. They have done well to bring talented young players in recent windows. It is clear that they are looking to build for the future, and signing the 19-year-old would be a solid investment. They could groom him into a future star.

Smit could fancy a move

The opportunity to move to the Premier League could be exciting for the Netherlands prodigy as well. It would be a major step up for him, and regular football in England could bring out the best in the player.

The other clubs linked with the midfielder will be attractive destinations for him as well. He needs to join a team, but he will get regular opportunities and a clear pathway to the first team. Sitting on the bench at a big club will not benefit him. He needs to choose his next destination carefully.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid and Barcelona could use more technical ability in the final third. They need to add more creativity to the side, and the 19-year-old could be the ideal fit.

This article first appeared on the Boy Hotspur and was syndicated with permission.

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