"The 20-year-old AZ Alkmaar standout has attracted sustained interest from Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United, all of whom explored potential deals during the January transfer window, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside. Smit's rise in the Eredivisie has been swift and eye-catching. Comfortable dictating play from deep while also capable of driving forward with the ball, the Dutch youth international has developed a reputation for showing maturity beyond years."
"Among the English suitors, Liverpool are believed to have taken early steps by holding preliminary discussions with Smit's representatives earlier this year. The Merseyside club have a track record of identifying elite young midfielders before their value peaks, and Smit fits that recruitment profile closely. Arsenal, meanwhile, are thought to be operating with a longer horizon. Sources suggest the Gunners are already mapping out a possible move for the summer of 2026."
"The youngster has made 31 appearances for AZ Alkmaar in all competitions this season, scoring three goals and providing five assists. AZ Alkmaar have placed an initial valuation of around 60 million on Smit, but that figure is widely expected to rise. With multiple Premier League clubs monitoring the situation, the price could climb towards 75 million, a level that reflects both Smit's potential and the inflationary effect of English interest."
Kees Smit, a 20-year-old AZ Alkmaar midfielder, has attracted strong interest from Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United. He has made 31 appearances this season, scoring three goals and providing five assists while gaining a reputation for mature play, dictating from deep and driving forward. Liverpool held preliminary talks earlier in the year and target elite young midfielders. Arsenal are planning longer-term and are considering a move in summer 2026. Manchester United continue to monitor and could act this summer if conditions allow. AZ Alkmaar have set an initial valuation around 60 million, which could rise toward 75 million under Premier League interest.
Read at www.caughtoffside.com
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]