Manchester United have not yet completed their midfield rebuild, and a new name has now emerged as a potential target.
The Reds have completed four deals so far this summer, with Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans joining for a combined £85m in midfield, while youngster Tynan Thompson has arrived from Tottenham in a £4m deal, and goalkeeper Karl Darlow has arrived on a free transfer.
But the club are still pushing to make more additions to their squad, especially in midfield, and with a number of targets being linked, it has emerged that there is a deal to be done for one of the players reportedly on their list.
Man Utd Eyeing Kees Smit Deal
Kees Smit
According to a report by freelance journalist Shaun Connolly, Man Utd are keen on a deal to sign AZ Alkmaar central midfielder Kees Smit this summer.
Smit, who has been described as 'special', has emerged as one of the most impressive midfield prospects in Europe over the last 12 months, and is expected to leave the Eredivisie side as a result of the interest in his services.
United are keen to bring in midfield reinforcements, and according to Connolly, the Reds 'greatly admire' the young Netherlands star. It's also reported that there is a belief that 'a deal is there to be done this summer', although it is unclear if Man Utd will actively push to bring him to Old Trafford.
Smit has been heavily linked with the likes of Newcastle, Liverpool, and Real Madrid in recent times, while United legend Rio Ferdinand described him as someone that the club cannot allow to join a rival because of his potential.
The youngster would be a welcome addition at Old Trafford as they look to put more control into their side, but at just 20-years-old it means he may struggle for regular game time behind Tielemans, Santos, and Kobbie Mainoo ahead of him.
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
All 10 found — excellent!
Smit Is a Future Superstar
Kees Smit
Man Utd have a clear idea of what they want in midfield, and in reality, it's fair to say that Smit probably doesn't fit that mould right now.
Smit is someone who is at his best with the ball at his feet and controlling a game, while United are pushing to find someone more defensive-minded who can win the ball back and give it to the likes of Mainoo and Tielemans to control the game.
But Smit is a player who is so good, and has such a high ceiling, that not signing him now could mean you miss out in the future too. It's not often that players like him are available, and this is a moment where United must consider getting a deal done in advance to set themselves up for the future.
Manchester United caretaker manager Michael Carrick claps the fans Related
Man Utd Offered 'Generational' Chelsea Star Who Wants to Move
Michael Carrick has been searching for a new left-back.