AZ Alkmaar midfield ace Kees Smith has been called up to the Netherlands squad for the first time amid transfer links to a range of European clubs, including Manchester United.
With Casemiro leaving at the end of the season, Manchester United have drawn up a list of possible midfield targets.
Many of the midfield targets are currently playing in the Premier League, such as Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson, but United will extend that search in the hope of finding the best option available.
It’s expected to be a busy transfer window this summer with the World Cup taking place, not to mention United’s quest to continue rebuilding the squad for long-term success.
Kees Smit trains with the Netherlands squad
Photo by Koen van Weel / ANP / AFP via Getty Images
Kees Smit named in latest Netherlands squad
Ronald Koeman announced his Netherlands squad for the upcoming friendlies in March.
This gives the players selected one last chance – in front of Koeman – to prove they should be in the World Cup squad later this year.
Although there was no room for Matthijs de Ligt, due to an ongoing back injury since November, one notable inclusion was AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit.
The 20-year-old earns his first call-up to the national team, meaning he has a chance to impress Koeman against Ecuador and Norway.
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Despite not selecting De Ligt due to injury, that didn’t stop Koeman from calling up former United forward Memphis Depay.
Smit admitted he is likely to leave AZ Alkmaar in the summer, while it was previously reported that United are competing with Barcelona and Real Madrid for the starlet’s signature.
It will do Smit no harm ahead of a potential transfer to test himself on the international stage, but a World Cup call-up could be a big ask at this stage of the season.
The latest international call-up may also present United with a chance to watch Smit closer before deciding whether they want to sign the talented youngster this summer.
Kees Smit stats for AZ Alkmaar this season
Smith has been a consistent performer for AZ Alkmaar this season.
Although the majority of his appearances (28) have come in central midfield, he has also featured as a defensive midfielder on four occasions.
Smith has also shown his quality in attacking positions by scoring four goals and registering eight assists in 40 appearances.
AZ Alkmaar are currently sixth in the Eredivisie, but Smith is seen as one of the top emerging players in the Netherlands.
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