Image Credits: Imago Images
DaveOCKOP exclusively revealed that Liverpool has serious interest in AZ Alkmaar’s Kees Smit last week.
Smit has been on Liverpool’s radar for quite some time, emerging as one of the most exciting young midfielders in the Netherlands after breaking through at AZ. Primarily deployed as a central or defensive midfielder, the 19-year-old has already surpassed 30 senior league appearances, impressively contributing goals and assists in both Eredivisie and European competitions.
So far this season, he’s been a key figure for AZ—starting most of their league fixtures, amassing over 1,500 minutes of game time, and ranking among the top performers for minutes played and chance creation among defensive midfielders in the division. Known for his technical ability, composure under pressure, and vision between the lines, Smit has even drawn comparisons to Pedri—an indication of just how highly regarded he is.
Liverpool’s interest comes amid growing competition from several top European clubs, and AZ are expected to demand a club-record transfer fee for their prized academy graduate.
Now, speaking on YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano confirmed super agent Jorge Mendes will handle Smit’s departure from AZ Alkmaar – while also asserting that Real Madrid will be involved in transfer race: “Jorge Mendes is in control of the situation. There is Real Madrid interested and several Premier League top clubs so there is going to be a big battle in the Premier League and Spanish clubs.”
“Let’s see what happens because Kes Smit and AZ Alkmaar, it is going to be a huge summer, a huge battle. It’s not going to be easy to sign him because 40-45 million euros is not going to be enough, it’s going to be big money. For sure, it’s going to be a big battle so get for Kees Smit because he’s going to be a big part of conversations.”
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