The young Dutch star Kees Smit, aged 19, continues to shine this season with AZ Alkmaar, confirming his status as one of the most prominent rising talents in European football.

In statements to the Dutch newspaper 'De Telegraaf', the player said: 'I want to reach the top as quickly as possible. Talking about money is not easy, but I know I want to have a good season with Alkmaar, and then we'll see what happens. A transfer doesn't have to be next year necessarily.'

Smit, who made his debut with the Netherlands U21 team during the current international break, continues to excel with his club Alkmaar, where he has started in eight out of nine matches this season.

The attacking midfielder holds a special status after leading his country to victory in the UEFA Under-19 Championship last summer, where he was awarded the Best Player and Top Scorer of the tournament, and is seen as a new leader within the locker room.

Reports have confirmed that European giants have already started to track the player, with Real Madrid and Barcelona at the forefront, heightening expectations regarding his future in the upcoming period.