Newcastle United are linked with the 'next' Kevin De Bruyneplaceholder image
Newcastle United are linked with the 'next' Kevin De Bruyne | Getty Images, Newcastle United
Newcastle United are linked with the latest wonderkid off the Dutch conveyor belt.
Newcastle United will reportedly battle the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid for Dutch sensation Kees Smit.
German giants Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich are also named as potential destinations for the midfielder. A product of AZ Alkmaar’s youth setup, Smit has already made 50 professional appearances.
The 19-year-old has been called up to the Netherlands senior setup for the first time for the upcoming clashes with Poland and Lithuania. Smith has drawn comparisons to former Manchester City ace Kevin De Bruyne and Barcelona maestro Pedri.
Ronald Koeman on Pedri comparisons
When asked about the Pedri comparisons, Koeman told Dutch media this week: “He has the awareness to receive in tight spaces and move the ball forward. That is something we value. The resemblance people see is in how he positions himself and his decision-making under pressure.
“But every player must form his own identity. Big clubs follow players with these characteristics. That is normal. What is important is that he continues developing where he is, playing regularly.”
Newcastle United want Kees Smit
The Daily Mail report that Newcastle are interested in the talented youngster. It is noted that new sporting director Ross Wilson is keen to scour the continent for Europe’s best talents.
Newcastle already pipped Barca and Madrid to Spanish prodigy Antonio Cordero earlier this year. A trusted midfield of Joelinton, Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes is strong but, beyond that, United’s options are open for debate.
Joe Willock has not looked the same player for several seasons while Lewis Miley is also earning his stripes. Jacob Ramsey arrived in the summer but is yet to find his feet in a Toon shirt.
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‘Barcelona my favourite club’ - Kees Smit
When asked about the Pedri comparisons, Smit admitted that Barcelona are his favourite club. He said: “I wasn’t expecting it, but I think it’s a good comparison. Before, I was De Bruyne, and now I’m Pedri (laughs).
“Or Frenkie de Jong. I understand that people found it a rather strange comparison. I watch almost every Barcelona match. It’s simply my favourite club.”
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