FC Bayern continues to keep a close eye on the international talent market – and now a new, highly exciting midfield jewel has appeared on the record champions‘ list.
Kees Smit, 19 years old and currently under contract with AZ Alkmaar, is one of the most sought-after youngsters in Europe.
According to Sky Sports UK, Newcastle United have already made a move for the Dutchman, but the competition is fierce: Bayern, Real Madrid and FC Barcelona have also reportedly been keeping an eye on Smit for months. Munich, in particular, regularly scout the Eredivisie – the player fits in perfectly with the profile of young, promising players being pursued by sporting director Max Eberl and sporting director Christoph Freund.
AZ Alkmaar are apparently willing to talk in principle, but have one clear condition: the transfer fee for Smit would have to break the club record for a transfer fee. More than 25 million euros would therefore be required to release the 19-year-old from his contract – a sum that would be remarkably high for a teenager from the Eredivisie, but at the same time reflects his rapidly increasing esteem.
Kees Smit won the U19 European Championship with Oranje
Smit himself is said to want to take the next step as quickly as possible, ideally to a top club where he can prove himself at the highest level.
In the current season, the central midfielder has made 19 competitive appearances, scoring two goals and providing four assists – strong figures for a 19-year-old who will not make his breakthrough into the professional game until 2024. He was already an integral part of the squad in pre-season.
Smit has been trained in the AZ youth team since 2015 and also won the European Championship with the Dutch U19s in 2025 – another indicator of his enormous potential. His current market value is around €10 million and rising.
For Bayern, Smit would be a promising player who fits in perfectly with their strategy: young, technically strong, flexible and with international prospects.