Real Madrid News
Real Madrid revive interest in Jorge Mendes-backed €60m midfield talent
Real Madrid have once again been linked with AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, with the highly rated Dutchman reportedly exploring his options ahead of a possible move away from the Eredivisie.
According to AS, Smit’s name has resurfaced within the Real Madrid circle as the 20-year-old considers the next step in his career.
The midfielder is being assisted by Jorge Mendes in assessing potential opportunities, with several major clubs said to be aware of his situation.
Premier League interest has emerged in recent months, but according to the aforementioned outlet, Smit favours a move to La Liga.
On that note, the likes of Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona have all been identified as possible destinations, although each club currently has its own priorities in the transfer market.
For now, there has been no concrete movement from Real Madrid, as the Spanish giants are believed to consider their current squad complete unless departures create space for further additions.
Kees Smit on Real Madrid’s radar once again
Smit has attracted attention through his performances for AZ Alkmaar, with his ability to operate comfortably with both feet standing out.
The Dutch midfielder is known for his capacity to break through opposition lines, particularly through his passing and combination play.
His versatility is another major part of his profile, as he is capable of playing across different positions in midfield.
That flexibility could make him an interesting option for Real Madrid in the future.
According to the report, Jose Mourinho is keen on midfielders with a similar technical profile to Bernardo Silva.
However, simply being on Real Madrid’s radar and becoming an active transfer target are two very different things.
There have been no major developments at Valdebebas regarding the Kees Smit transfer, and the club is not expected to make a move unless there is a change in their squad.
€60 million price tag and a possible delayed transfer
One important factor in any future transfer involving the Dutch midfielder will be his valuation.
As such, the 20-year-old could reportedly cost around €60 million, which is a significant figure for a player who is still developing but considerably below the amount being discussed for some other young midfielders in the market.
Smit, though, may not be in a rush to leave AZ Alkmaar.
The Dutchman has not ruled out remaining with his current club for another season, allowing him to continue playing regularly and gain further experience before targeting a move in 2027.
That possibility could suit Real Madrid as well. With the current squad viewed as complete, Los Blancos can continue monitoring his development without needing to rush into a costly deal.
Real Madrid News
Barcelona sensation claims he deserves Ballon d’Or ahead of Kylian Mbappe: ‘I deserve it this year because…’
The Ballon d’Or debate has taken a more personal turn, with Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal making their respective cases for the prize after both emerged as leading contenders among the 30 nominees for the 2026 award.
The shortlist has intensified the discussion ahead of the ceremony on October 26, with the Barcelona winger and Real Madrid forward offering contrasting assessments of their own claims.
Mbappe was the first of the pair to make his position clear.
“I have made a lot of history in the most important competition in sport; it is a good year to win the Ballon d’Or,” he stated
That argument is built around both his individual numbers and his impact for France.
The Real Madrid forward became the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history with 22 goals and played a major role in France reaching the semi-finals.
His club campaign was equally productive, having finished the season with 42 goals and seven assists for Real Madrid.
Yamal believes his season gives him the edge
At the same time, Yamal has no intention of conceding the argument.
The Barcelona star, who finished second in last year’s Ballon d’Or voting, believes he and Mbappe are the two strongest candidates and has made it clear that he would choose himself if given the vote.
“Who would I give it to? The best in the world. Who are they going to give it to? That’s a very long discussion. I honestly think that maybe there are two of us who are the best in the world.
“And I think I deserve it this year because of what I’ve won. Because for me, Mbappe and I are the two best in the world.
“For me, it’s very clear, and everyone who watches the games knows it,” he explains in a preview of Universo Valdano.
From a neutral perspective, there is substance behind Yamal’s confidence, as he played a central role in Spain’s World Cup triumph while his club statistics also stand out.
Yamal scored 24 goals and supplied 18 assists across all competitions, while helping Barcelona win La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup.
Mbappe vs Yamal could define the Ballon d’Or race
The comparison is compelling because both players can point to a major international tournament and outstanding individual output, but their cases are built around slightly different strengths.
Mbappe’s World Cup record is difficult to overlook, as becoming the competition’s all-time leading scorer while helping France reach the semi-finals gives the Frenchman a landmark achievement that will carry considerable weight in the voting.
Yamal, on the other hand, can point to his contribution to Spain’s World Cup victory as well as a stronger trophy haul at club level.
Barcelona’s La Liga title, combined with his 24 goals and 18 assists, gives him a strong statistical and sporting case.
