Chelsea, Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing 19-year-old Dutch wonderkid Kees Smit from AZ Alkmaar.
According to a report by i News, Kees Smit is the subject of interest from Chelsea. Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur are also keen on signing the AZ Alkmaar midfield sensation. However, they have fallen behind Chelsea in the battle for the Dutchman’s signature, with the Eredivisie outfit demanding £25 million to part ways with him.
Who is Kees Smit?
Kees Smit is the latest promising prodigy to rise in prominence in his homeland. A native of Heiloo, the 19-year-old has spent his formative years thus far in the Netherlands, starting his youth career at De Foresters before graduating from the youth division at AZ Alkmaar. The Dutchman has already made over 50 appearances for AZ Alkmaar thus far while chipping in with four goals and seven assists.
Meanwhile, the Dutch midfield prospect’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs. Chelsea, Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
Will Smit move to the Premier League soon?
While Enzo Maresca has a stacked midfield unit, widespread reports have suggested that Chelsea will dip into the market for a midfielder next year. So, Smit has emerged as a viable target for Chelsea, with Maresca keen on adding more options in the middle of the park. As for Tottenham, Yves Bissouma has no future at the North London club, and they will sell him next year. So, Smit is a viable target for Tottenham.
Meanwhile, Manchester United’s interest in Kees Smit is understandable. The Red Devils are scouring the market for a versatile midfielder amid uncertainties surrounding the long-term futures of Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo. Additionally, Manuel Ugarte has struggled to make his mark since joining Manchester United from Paris Saint-Germain last year. So, Smit is an option worth considering.
As for Newcastle United, the Magpies are looking for a versatile midfielder amid uncertainties surrounding the long-term futures of Joelinton and Joe Willock. So, Smit is a viable target for the Tyneside outfit, with the Dutchman’s profile making him an ideal foil for Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali. Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar will demand around £25 million to part ways with the youngster.
However, Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur have fallen behind Chelsea in the battle for Smit’s signature, as “there has been recent dialogue between Chelsea and Smit’s camp” over a possible move. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for the 19-year-old Dutch wonderkid.
