Manchester United went head-to-head with Newcastle United for several signings in the summer and their feud will continue into 2026.
The Red Devils spent £232 million on five new signings in the summer, and three of the new arrivals were also on Newcastle’s shopping list.
Before Matheus Cunha completed his £62.5m move to Old Trafford, he was also linked with a move to St James’ Park. Newcastle also wanted Bryan Mbeumo, but the Cameroon international made it crystal clear that he only ever wanted to join United.
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In the latter stages of the window, Newcastle and United entered a bidding war for Benjamin Sesko. Despite Newcastle being able to offer higher wages and Champions League football, there was only one destination on the Slovenian’s mind.
Ahead of 2026, United are showing interest in Elliot Anderson. Newcastle are also being linked with a move to bring their academy graduate back to Tyneside. However, Anderson is not the only midfielder both clubs are keeping tabs on.
Netherlands U19s midfielder Kees Smit poses with his award.
Photo by Harry Murphy – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
Man United and Newcastle battle for Kees Smit
United have already dominated Newcastle in one transfer window, and now it seems the two clubs could battle for the signature of AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit.
Transfer chief Christopher Vivell has contacted Smit ahead of a potential deal in 2026.
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It is no secret that United want a central midfielder in 2026 and Smit is on Ineos’ shortlist.
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According to The Telegraph, Newcastle are interested in Smit and believe the 19-year-old would be keen on a move in 2026.
Smit is expected to cost around £25 million next season, with Alkmaar accepting that he is likely to move on at the end of the season.
Kees Smit can finally tick Frenkie de Jong box at Man Utd
Smit has been compared to Frenkie de Jong because of his style of play and the obvious comparisons as a Dutch midfielder.
United went above and beyond to try and sign Frenkie de Jong under Erik ten Hag, but ended up missing out on the Ajax graduate.
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The Red Devils have still not filled the void of a tempo-controlling midfield since missing out on De Jong. Ruben Amorim wants an athletic midfielder to arrive in 2026, and Smit ticks many of his boxes.
Both Newcastle and United are currently out of the European qualification spots in the Premier League table, so it could be a straight head-to-head for Smit’s signature.