AZ Alkmaar, a privately owned entity headquartered in the Netherlands, was founded in 1967 and employs approximately 360 individuals. Functioning as a tier 1 media tech buyer, the organization operates as a Dutch professional football club from Alkmaar and the Zaan district, also known as Alkmaar Zaanstreek or simply AZ.
On April 23, 2026, reports indicated Chelsea and Manchester United are in a race to sign 20-year-old midfielder Kees Smit, valued at an estimated €60 million. This follows an April 22 report from CaughtOffside, which cited sources close to the agents industry confirming the two Premier League clubs are in a battle for the Dutch midfielder, who has openly hinted at readiness to test himself at the highest level. Previously, on April 18, Troy Parrott lifted his first senior trophy, the Dutch KNVB Beker Cup, with AZ Alkmaar. Earlier in the month, on April 12, the transfer race for Smit intensified across Europe, building on reports from April 9 that Manchester United was among clubs vying for the midfielder, who observers have compared to Kevin De Bruyne for his creativity and composure.
Subscribe for full access to AZ Alkmaar's products in full detail 
