Kees Smit spurns Real Madrid after Chelsea discussions in January boost for Maresca
Chelsea have received significant encouragement in their pursuit of a highly-rated midfielder after he declines the approach from Real Madrid, clearly indicating his transfer intentions.
Chelsea expected to sign new midfielder in 2026
According to a recent article from The Telegraph and Matt Law, acquiring a new midfielder is firmly on the agenda for Chelsea next year. Law states that the Blues are set to bring in at least one new face for their midfield in 2026, possibly spending considerable funds to do so.
Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernández have been heavily utilized this season, each accumulating over 1,500 minutes already, while Roméo Lavia and Dario Essugo are currently experiencing a string of injuries. Fernández, in particular, has played more minutes than any other Chelsea squad member, and a change seems imminent. Enter two high-profile targets from the Premier League who could revitalize the midfield. Kobbie Mainoo can be a target once more, with the Manchester United academy product expected to cost around £45 million if Chelsea formalizes their interest.
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Then there is the Crystal Palace sensation Adam Wharton, whose price tag could now reach £100 million after the Eagles acquired him from Blackburn before Chelsea could act. Although that opportunity has passed, The Telegraph indicates that he remains on BlueCo’s radar for next year. Alternatively, Chelsea may opt for another rising star, with AZ Alkmaar’s Kees Smit drawing their interest.
Respected journalist Mark Douglas reported for inews last week that Chelsea has had recent conversations with Smit’s representatives and are viewed as leading contenders to secure the young Dutch player. The 19-year-old has distinguished himself as one of the brightest talents in the Eredivisie, giving Enzo Maresca’s squad a significant boost in their chase for Smit.
Chelsea granted Kees Smit transfer advantage as he turns down Real Madrid
Reports emerging from Spain suggest that Smit has rejected the advances of Real Madrid, opting for a move to the Premier League, thereby providing Chelsea with a notable advantage.
The Dutch prodigy has emerged as one of Europe’s most sought-after talents this season, establishing himself as a crucial player for AZ, excelling in both domestic and Conference League competitions. His impressive performances have led to comparisons with Barcelona’s Pedri, with Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman praising the teenager’s game intelligence and ability to read matches.
Chelsea is not the only Premier League team monitoring Smit’s development, as Newcastle is also reportedly interested in him. Maresca’s pursuit has received a boost owing to the player’s clear preference for English football over other European options, including Real. Smit’s inclination towards the Premier League is driven by his wish to grow in what he views as the most challenging and physically demanding league globally. The young talent apparently feels that the intensity and weekly encounters with top-tier opposition will expedite his progress at this pivotal phase of his career. Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig has been notably complimentary about Smit, describing him as a ‘fantastic’ and ‘underrated’ midfielder poised to be the ‘future of AZ and Dutch football’.
Only two of Smit’s AZ teammates have logged more Eredivisie minutes than him this season, as he has settled into the starting lineup despite his young age. He has also been likened to Man City legend Kevin De Bruyne, making it clear why so many are excited about his potential.
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Published: 2025-12-19 18:45:00
source: www.footballfancast.com
