Kees Smit will unlikely leave AZ Alkmaar in the winter transfer window amid his links with Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Real Madrid.
According to a report by the Daily Mail, Kees Smit is the subject of interest of Newcastle United. The Magpies are scouring the market for a young midfielder and have set their sights on the AZ Alkmaar midfield sensation. However, the 19-year-old will not leave the Eredivisie outfit in the winter transfer window. Meanwhile, another Daily Mail report has revealed he is a target for Real Madrid and Chelsea.
Who is Kees Smit?
Kees Smit is the latest wonderkid to rise in prominence in his homeland. Born in 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, Newcastle United, and Real Madrid are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature. Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar’s asking price to sell the youngster has risen to £40 million. However, a winter departure is not on the cards.
A man in demand
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.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s interest in Kees Smit is understandable. The Merengues are scouring the market for a versatile midfielder to fill the void that Luka Modric and Toni Kroos have left at the Santiago Bernabeu. So, Smit is a viable target for Real Madrid.
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 an option worth considering 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 £40 million to part ways with the youngster.
However, the 19-year-old Dutch wonderkid will unlikely leave the Eredivisie club in the winter transfer window. So, Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Newcastle United face a waiting period in the race to sign Smit from AZ Alkmaar this year.