Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso asked the club's head scout, Yuni Kalafat, to travel to the Netherlands to follow AZ midfielder Kes Smith. This was reported by Real Madrid Confidencial, according to Real Madrid Confidencial.
According to the source, Alonso considers the 19-year-old Dutchman worthy of the team's starting lineup. It is emphasized that he could move to Real Madrid in the next transfer window, meaning that if the decision is made, the deal could be finalized soon.
Smith made 43 appearances for AZ in all competitions in the 2024/25 season, scoring 10 goals and providing 7 assists. These figures create a positive impression of his attacking prowess, decision-making speed, and last-pass culture.
It is noted that his contract is valid until June 30, 2028. Therefore, the club's position in any negotiation is firm - it's natural that negotiation measures with AZ and possible additional conditions (bonuses, resale percentage) will be at the center of discussion.
Transfermarkt values the player's transfer value at €5 million. While theoretically this might not seem like much for a giant like Real Madrid, if interest in the young player intensifies competition, an increase in the amount cannot be ruled out.
Yuni Kalafat's business trip can be interpreted as Alonso's personal request. Kalafat has been known as a scout who has worked accurately in the youth market in recent years, so his own conclusion serves as a decisive factor for further steps in the club.
The very thought that Alonso considers the 19-year-old midfielder worthy of the starting lineup hints at his plans for the new season. This will probably be combined with such strategies as deepening the game style, increasing dynamics and urgency in the center, and adding young resources to the long-term project.
The figures about Smith illustrate a broader picture than simple statistics. 43 games - this is the trust of the coaches, 10+7 - this is an indicator of effectiveness and adaptation to the overall attacking architecture. If the results of the observation are used with calls from national teams, signals for managing the flow of the game, interest will increase even more.
Therefore, the phrase "he might move to Real Madrid next transfer window" is not accidental. If AZ's position, the player's own wishes, and Real Madrid's plans converge, it's clear that there's the necessary level of initial preparation for the agreement.
For now, the most important stage is the live observation and internal reporting of Yuni Kalafat. Based on his conclusion, further steps are determined, and the speed of review is aimed at synchronizing the team plan, as Alonso hinted at in a "hastily" manner.
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