Kees Smit (AZ Alkmaar)
November 2025
Newcastle United are pushing into the race for Kees Smit (AZ Alkmaar), the 19-year-old midfielder whose rise from academy talent to Youth League standout and Under 19 European champion has attracted serious interest from Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. After scoring from halfway against Barcelona and starring at the Under 19 Euros, Smit has passed 50 senior games and drawn praise from Ronald Koeman (Netherlands). Newcastle, led by sporting director Ross Wilson (Newcastle United), hope regular Premier League minutes and a clear midfield role will beat richer rivals.