Real Madrid’s long-term recruitment plans have hit an early obstacle as competition intensifies for one of Europe’s most highly rated young midfielders.

According to a report from AS, the Spanish giants are facing a strong challenge in their pursuit of Kees Smit, currently starring for AZ Alkmaar.

While Real Madrid are not expected to make a concrete move during the January transfer window, the situation around the 19-year-old has become more complicated due to serious interest from Newcastle United.

The Premier League side has identified Smit as their top midfield target, placing additional pressure on Madrid’s long-term strategy.

No move in January

Newcastle’s interest is significant, but a winter transfer remains unlikely. They are aware that prising Smit away mid-season would require a major financial effort.

Despite heavy investment last summer, the Saudi-backed club is unwilling to exceed their current spending limits in January.

As the report notes, Newcastle are not prepared to spend “more than £40 million” during the winter window.

That valuation falls well short of AZ Alkmaar’s expectations. The Dutch club is understood to have set Smit’s price tag at around €60 million, a figure that effectively rules out a January move for most clubs.

Newcastle United are interested in Kees Smit. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

This valuation gap is one of the main reasons why a transfer this month is seen as extremely difficult.

Competition for Real Madrid

What both Real Madrid and Newcastle United officials do agree on is the level of interest surrounding the player.

As such, “almost all the big clubs in Europe are interested.”

Real Madrid have been monitoring the midfielder closely through their scouting network and see him as a profile that fits their long-term project.

However, Madrid are rarely rushed into deals, especially in January, and remain confident in their ability to attract top talent when the timing is right.

Newcastle, meanwhile, are expected to return for Smit in the summer if he remains at AZ Alkmaar.

Even then, any club hoping to secure his signature will need to meet the Dutch side’s high valuation.