Newcastle United target Kees Smit.placeholder image
Newcastle United target Kees Smit. | Getty Images, Newcastle United
Newcastle United kept tabs on Dutch wonderkid Kees Smit ahead of the January transfer window.
Newcastle United target Kees Smit has suggested he will leave AZ Alkmaar this summer.
As reported by NewcastleWorld in November, the Magpies express an interest in the Dutch wonderkid. Smit has enjoyed a meteoric rise, breaking through the ranks last season to emerge as one of Europe’s top prospects.
The 20-year-old has earned a maiden call-up to the senior Netherlands squad ahead of their games against Norway and Ecuador. He is described as a highly technical midfielder with an eye for goal.
Newcastle United interest
It is understood that Newcastle are planning to bolster the midfield ranks in the coming transfer windows. Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton have been the first-choice options for the Magpies in recent weeks.
Beyond that, Jacob Ramsey has started to impress following his big-money move from Aston Villa. However, question marks remain over Joe Willock’s future, with Lewis Miley - while talented - suffering niggling injury woes.
Newcastle targeted Smit ahead of the January window and valued him at around £25million. Dutch sources laughed off this valuation - and fears soon emerged that the Magpies could be priced out.
Kees Smit on AZ Alkmaar future
There is also concern that Smit could be looking beyond Newcastle, with Real Madrid and Barcelona reportedly keeping tabs on the situation. Speaking to Dutch media, Smit has predicted he will leave AZ this summer.
“I don’t see that happening,” he said when asked whether he could stay put. “In principle, I want to play a lot, that is the most important thing for me. I don’t know yet what the ideal step is.
“When I do know, I will announce it. These are absurd amounts (of money) you hear being mentioned… I think so myself too. I can see it all clearly. And so can you.”
Kees Smit reveals preferred move
Smit has previously commented on his love for Barcelona, citing a preference to play in La Liga. He said: "I love watching Barcelona so much. I grew up following Andrés Iniesta & Lionel Messi and they are my role models. I watch all of Barcelona’s matches, it's my favourite team.
“I love watching Pedri and Frenkie (de Jong). I know the comparisons might seem strange - previously they compared me to De Bruyne & now to Pedri & Frenkie. Where do I want to play next? La Liga. Playing there would be great. I love the sun, I'm tired of playing in so much cold and rain, so I'd like to go and play in Spain."
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