Barcelona Transfer Target Kees Smit Closing in on New AZ Alkmaar Contract
Barcelona could face a major obstacle in their pursuit of one of the Netherlands’ most promising young midfielders, with Kees Smit reportedly closing in on a new long-term contract with AZ Alkmaar.
The 20-year-old has emerged as an intriguing potential target for Barça and Real Madrid, thanks to his technical ability and growing reputation in Dutch football. His admiration for Barcelona has also fuelled speculation about a possible move to Catalonia.
However, according to Dutch outlet Voetbal, via Mundo Deportivo, AZ and Smit are nearing an agreement that would keep him at the club until the middle of 2030.
For Barcelona, the development could complicate any future attempt to bring the highly rated midfielder to the Spotify Camp Nou.
AZ Alkmaar Determined to Keep Their Rising Star
Smit is currently contracted to AZ until June 30, 2028, but negotiations over an extension have reportedly been progressing for some time.
The club made its position clear in August, informing the midfielder that selling him was not part of its plans at that stage.
AZ have watched Smit develop since he joined their academy at just nine years old. He has since progressed into the first team and established himself as one of the most closely watched young midfielders in the Netherlands.
His performances have also earned him international recognition, with former Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman handing him his senior Netherlands debut.
Koeman has even drawn comparisons between Smit and Barcelona star Pedri, highlighting the qualities that could make him an attractive option for the Catalan side.
Kees Smit Has Never Hidden His Barcelona Dream
One reason Smit continues to attract attention from Barça supporters is his openly expressed admiration for the club.
In April, after AZ's squad visited Barcelona to celebrate winning the Dutch Cup, the midfielder was asked about the possibility of negotiating a move.
His response was telling.
“If they ask me to negotiate here, I am totally willing to do it. Of course, I have time for that.”
Smit has also revealed that his connection with Barcelona dates back to childhood.
“And I still watch them.”
Those comments have naturally encouraged speculation about a possible future transfer, particularly given Barcelona's reputation for developing technically gifted midfielders.
However, admiration alone does not guarantee a move, and AZ remain determined to retain one of their most valuable young assets.
La Liga Is Smit's Preferred Destination
Despite attracting interest from major European clubs, Smit has indicated that he is not in a hurry to leave the Netherlands.
When he eventually decides to move abroad, however, he has expressed a preference for playing in Spain rather than joining another domestic league, including the Premier League.
That preference could keep Barcelona interested, especially given the comparisons with Pedri and the midfielder's apparent appreciation for the club's style of football.
Still, a new contract would strengthen AZ's negotiating position and make any potential transfer more complicated.
Barcelona would likely need to convince both the player and his club that a move is the right next step in his development.
Barcelona May Have to Wait
For now, Smit's immediate future appears increasingly likely to remain in Alkmaar.
A contract extension until 2030 would give AZ greater security and reduce the pressure to sell, although it would not necessarily rule out a future transfer.
Barcelona continue to have several midfield options, but the club's recruitment team must also think about the next generation of talent.
Smit fits that long-term profile, yet the possibility of signing him may depend on how his development progresses and whether AZ eventually become willing to negotiate.
Barcelona may have a place in Smit's ambitions, but AZ Alkmaar are working hard to ensure that his next chapter remains in the Netherlands.