The transfer window is still months away but already the battle lines are being drawn across Europe and this time the spotlight is shining brightly on two of the biggest clubs in world football, Arsenal and Real Madrid. These are not just ordinary clubs fighting over an average player. These are giants of the game, institutions with history, trophies, global fanbases and huge ambition. And once again, they find themselves looking at the same midfield target.
Over the past few seasons there has been a quiet but growing rivalry between Arsenal and Real Madrid in the transfer market. It is not the kind of rivalry played out on the pitch every week, but one that happens behind the scenes, in boardrooms, in private meetings, in secret conversations between agents and sporting directors. When one club identifies a talent, the other is never too far away. And recently, that tension has increased.
Not long ago, Arsenal made a bold move by signing Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. At the time, many reports suggested that Zubimendi was expected to end up at Real Madrid. His style of play, his calmness on the ball, his intelligence in midfield, all seemed like a perfect match for the Spanish giants. Yet somehow, Arsenal moved quickly and got the deal done. That signing raised many questions in Madrid. Why did they not push harder? Why did they allow a player who fits their needs so perfectly to go elsewhere?
For two seasons now, midfield has been an area of concern for Real Madrid. The team has world-class players, no doubt, but there has been a feeling that something is missing. A certain balance. A certain control. Someone who can dictate tempo, break up play, and connect defense with attack without costing an unbelievable amount of money. Zubimendi was seen by many as the answer. But that chance slipped away.
Now history could be repeating itself.
The new name at the center of attention is Kees Smit, the talented 20-year-old midfielder currently playing for AZ Alkmaar. Smit is not yet a global superstar, but those who follow European football closely know that he is one of the brightest young midfielders in the Netherlands. His vision, passing range, composure under pressure, and tactical intelligence have attracted interest from across Europe.
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According to reports, including information shared by journalist Christian Falk, Arsenal are currently leading the race to sign Smit. And it is not just Real Madrid they are competing against. Manchester United, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich are all said to be monitoring the situation closely. This is not a small competition. This is a full-scale European battle for one of the most promising young midfielders available.
For Arsenal, the interest makes perfect sense. The club has been building something special over the last few years. They are no longer just a team fighting for top four. They are competing for major trophies on multiple fronts. This season they are challenging in the league, fighting in Europe, pushing in domestic cups. The squad depth has improved significantly. When injuries happen, there are players ready to step in without causing a dramatic drop in quality.
That kind of squad planning requires smart recruitment. Not just big names. Not just expensive stars. But young players who can grow with the team. Players who can contribute now but also develop into leaders in the future. Smit fits that profile perfectly. At just 20 years old, he has already shown maturity beyond his age. He plays with confidence, rarely panics, and seems comfortable in high-pressure situations.
For Real Madrid, the need is slightly different but equally urgent. The Spanish giants are always expected to dominate. They cannot afford long periods of weakness in any position. Midfield has been the heart of their success for years. The era of legendary players set a very high standard. Replacing that level of control and authority is never easy.
Reports suggest that midfield is the number one position Real Madrid want to strengthen this summer. Smit is said to be high on their shortlist. Compared to other options, he might be more affordable and easier to sign. That is important because other names linked with the club, like Vitinha of Paris Saint-Germain and Enzo Fernández of Chelsea, would likely cost enormous transfer fees.
PSG are not known for selling their key players easily. Chelsea invested heavily in Enzo and would demand a huge price to even consider negotiations. Those deals would be complicated, expensive, and politically difficult. In contrast, AZ Alkmaar might be more open to selling if the right offer arrives. That makes Smit an attractive option.
But here is where Arsenal’s position becomes dangerous for Madrid. Arsenal are currently in a strong financial and sporting position. They are leading domestically, competing strongly in Europe, and showing ambition. Young players around Europe are watching carefully. They see a team that gives opportunities. They see a manager who trusts youth. They see a club that is building something long-term rather than chasing short-term glory.
If Arsenal manage to secure Smit’s signature, it would not just strengthen their squad. It would send a message. A message that they can outmaneuver Real Madrid in the market. A message that they are becoming a destination club for top young talent. And that would not sit well in the Spanish capital.
There is also the psychological element. Losing out on Zubimendi already caused frustration among Madrid fans. If they miss out on Smit too, especially to Arsenal, it would raise further questions about recruitment strategy. Are they moving fast enough? Are they identifying targets early enough? Are they being too cautious?
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s project continues to grow. Their recruitment over recent windows has focused on balance, age profile, and long-term planning. They are not just buying stars. They are creating them. A player like Smit would likely be integrated slowly, given time to adapt, and developed carefully. That approach is attractive for young talents who want stability.
From Madrid’s perspective, the summer ahead is expected to be busy. There are reports that at least four signings could be made across different positions. Much will depend on who is in charge next season and how the squad evolves. There are questions about certain veterans, potential departures, and the need for fresh energy.
The club understands that modern football moves quickly. Waiting too long can mean losing a target. The competition is fierce. English clubs, especially, have financial power and are not afraid to spend on youth.
For Smit himself, this decision will be huge. Moving from AZ Alkmaar to a European giant is a massive step. Choosing between Arsenal and Real Madrid would not be easy. Both offer prestige. Both offer Champions League football. Both have history and global recognition.
The Premier League offers intensity, speed, and global exposure. La Liga offers technical football, tradition, and the unique aura of playing for Real Madrid. At 20 years old, the decision could shape his entire career.
At the same time, AZ Alkmaar will be aware that this is likely the moment to sell. His value is high. Interest is strong. Waiting another year could increase the price, but it also carries risk. An injury or loss of form could reduce demand. Clubs often prefer to act when momentum is strong.
As the season continues, the rumors will grow louder. Every strong performance from Smit will spark new headlines. Every quiet week will lead to speculation about negotiations happening behind closed doors. Agents will talk. Directors will meet. Fans will argue online.
In many ways, this is modern football. Transfers are no longer simple transactions. They are strategic battles. They involve timing, psychology, money, ambition, and sometimes even pride.
If Arsenal complete this signing, it would represent another smart move in their long-term rebuild. It would show that they are thinking ahead, preparing for the future while still competing now. Their squad would become even deeper, even more flexible.
If Real Madrid win the race, it would reinforce their status as a magnet for top young talent. It would show that they have learned from past missed opportunities and are determined not to repeat mistakes.
Either way, the story highlights something important. Arsenal are no longer seen as underdogs in these battles. They are standing shoulder to shoulder with Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Manchester United, and Liverpool when it comes to elite recruitment.
For fans, the excitement is only just beginning. The summer window promises drama, negotiations, surprises, and maybe even heartbreak for one side.
One thing is certain: the fight for Kees Smit is more than just a transfer rumor. It is a symbol of shifting power in European football. And as Arsenal and Real Madrid prepare for another showdown off the pitch, the world will be watching closely.
