The European football summer transfer window is heating up, with clubs across the continent eager to secure fresh talent to boost their squads ahead of the new season.
Young players who excelled in recent youth tournaments are drawing particular attention.
Teams are looking to build for the future while also addressing current weaknesses.
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Midfielders capable of controlling games and adding goals are especially sought after, given the increasing tactical demands of modern football.
Among the emerging talents, Kees Smit has caught the eye following his standout performances at the UEFA U19 European Championships.
Kees Smit was named Most Valuable Player as the Netherlands clinched the U19 Euros, highlighting his ability to dictate play and influence matches.
The 19-year-old midfielder scored four goals during the tournament, showcasing a threat from midfield that sets him apart.
Smit’s performances have intensified interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham, Real Madrid, Ajax, and Bayern Munich, as per TransferMarkt.
His professional career began with AZ Alkmaar’s youth setup at the age of nine, and he made his senior breakthrough last season with 18 Eredivisie appearances.
Smit’s style of play blends technical proficiency, vision, and composure on the ball, earning him comparisons to top midfielders such as Frenkie de Jong.
Manchester United were fully committed to signing de Jong in the summer of 2022, but the deal collapsed at the last moment, leading instead to the eventual signing of Casemiro.
The club revisited interest in de Jong last year, but it now seems increasingly unlikely that a transfer for the Dutch midfielder will ever materialise.
Transfermarkt’s Dutch football expert Kevin Lux described Smit as “a raw diamond with great potential” who offers creativity and goal-scoring ability that sets him apart from peers.
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Lux added that Smit’s chances of regular first-team football may increase after the departure of Sven Mijnans from Alkmaar, which could see him become a starter next season.
He also cautioned that it might be beneficial for Smit to remain in the Eredivisie another season to continue his development rather than rushing a move abroad.
AZ Alkmaar reportedly value Smit at over €20 million this summer, and while there is considerable interest, a transfer may not happen immediately.
Manchester United are among the Premier League clubs monitoring the Dutch youngster, keen to secure a promising midfielder who can make an impact in the years ahead.
With his maiden senior call-up to the Dutch national team expected later this year, Smit is poised to take the next step in his promising career, either at Alkmaar or on a bigger stage.
Experts see Kees Smit as a significant talent capable of fulfilling the demanding role of a modern midfield maestro, with United and other top clubs closely watching his progress.
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