Kes Smith Getty Images November 15, 2025, 7:30 p.m

England’s Newcastle are set to enter a serious transfer battle with Real Madrid to sign one of the Netherlands’ most exciting young players, Kes Smith.

The 19-year-old AZ Alkmaar midfielder has already attracted the attention of a number of top European clubs, including Real Madrid and Barcelona.

However, Newcastle believe they can convince the player to join their project – The Daily Mail.

Attention to Smith skyrocketed at the start of 2023 when he scored an incredible goal from the center of the pitch against Barcelona in a UEFA Youth League match.

He cemented his status last summer by dominating the U-19 European Championship, where he helped the Netherlands to the trophy.

Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman has already praised the young talent, hinting that his debut for the country’s senior team is only a matter of time.