Liverpool are in the mix to sign AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, according to reports.
TEAMtalk claim that the Reds are one of seven Premier League clubs vying for the Dutchman’s signature, along with Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham and Newcastle.
AZ know that they have a player with world-class potential so he won’t be available on the cheap in January or next summer.
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Journalist Fabrizio Romano has reported that the Eredivisie side have already rejected proposals worth up to €60m (£52m).
TEAMtalk report that Smit’s actual asking price could be as high as €75m (£65m), which would match the figure that Barcelona paid Ajax for Frenkie de Jong.
Smit has been likened to 2 Barcelona players
In addition to his valuation being similar, some scouts have also drawn similarities between the 19-year-old and de Jong as players.
Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman has actually mentioned de Jong’s Barcelona teammate, Pedri, as a more apt comparison:
“I almost regret mentioning his name again [Pedri], but he’s a guy who plays in the same position. The way he turns away from his opponent, the way he scans the area, his two-footedness… I saw that in Pedri too. If he gets half his career, we’ll be very happy in the Netherlands.”
A Dutch Adam Wharton is another likeness that has been made, so Smit is clearly someone with bags of technical ability.
Liverpool have priorities in other positions
Spending over £65m on a teenager seems somewhat unlikely. The transfer splurge last summer means the club have to be cautious in terms of future additions.
Adding a centre-back is undoubtedly a top priority, while the Merseysiders may soon need a replacement for Mo Salah too.
The interest is Smit is understandable, considering his potential, but it would be a surprise if Arne Slot’s side are one of the frontrunners to secure his services.
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