Real Madrid Transfers: This is the price of Kees Smit

Real Madrid faces a crucial week on multiple fronts. After leaving behind the victory in Asturias against Real Oviedo, the focus of the team led by Xabi Alonso is now on the upcoming La Liga match against Mallorca, who will visit the Santiago Bernabéu in the third round of LaLiga EA Sports.

However, media attention is not solely on the domestic championship, as the white club is awaiting the draw for the UEFA Champions League and a potential transfer market move that could disrupt plans laid out months ago.

The center of this situation is Dani Ceballos, whose continuity is once again up in the air. Although Alonso had insisted that the squad was closed, the possible departure of the Utrera midfielder would force the club to rethink its strategy. The season will be long and demanding, and losing an experienced midfielder without an immediate replacement would pose a risk that the sports management is not willing to take.

Real Madrid is clear, the signing is Kees Smit

In this context, Dutch footballer Kees Smit has become a prominent figure on the Madridista agenda. The young talent from AZ Alkmaar has long been closely watched by Juni Calafat, one of the main figures in scouting young promises at the white club. His profile fits the idea of strengthening the midfield with players of potential and technical quality.

As indicated by DefensaCentral, the issue is that the Dutch club is not willing to easily part with their jewel. It has been revealed that AZ's stance is clear: they will only negotiate if the player himself pushes for a transfer, and in that case, the deal will not be settled for less than 40 million euros. A figure much higher than the initial 15 million euros that Madrid had considered paying in the first place.

The clash between AZ's valuation and Real Madrid's initial offer creates a complex scenario. The white club does not want to rush or pay more than they deem reasonable, but they are aware that the market provides fewer opportunities when it comes to high-level young players. Moreover, Smit is on an upward trajectory in his career, and if he confirms his progress, the competition for his signing will be even higher next summer.

This puts Madrid at a crossroads. On one hand, sticking to the original plan and waiting until 2026 with a stable squad. On the other hand, making an economic effort to cover the potential loss of Ceballos with a player who is theoretically destined to make a difference in the future.

The outcome will depend on two main factors. First, the official confirmation of Ceballos's departure, which is not yet finalized. Second, the board and Xabi Alonso must decide if it is worth paying an amount that more than doubles the club's initial assessment.

Real Madrid is aware that if they want to secure Kees Smit, they will have to dig deep into their pockets and reach the 40 million euros demanded by AZ Alkmaar. Everything suggests that the deal could be postponed to next summer, maintaining the original plans, but at Chamartín, no one rules out an unexpected turn if the squad is short of creative options.

For now, the immediate focus is on Mallorca and continuing to accumulate points in LaLiga, but behind the scenes, the buzz doesn't stop. The blend of the schedule, Champions League, and the market makes this week one of the most turbulent for the white club at the start of the season.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Fichajes Real Madrid: Este es el precio de Kees Smit