A quiet storm is brewing in Dutch football, and Liverpool is preparing to navigate its force. Nineteen-year-old Kees Smit, a midfield prodigy from AZ Alkmaar, has rapidly ascended to become one of Europe’s most coveted young players, attracting attention from the continent’s elite.
Smit’s breakthrough moment arrived during AZ Alkmaar’s triumphant 2023 UEFA Youth League campaign. He wasn’t just a participant; he was instrumental, showcasing a tactical awareness and composure beyond his years that immediately caught the eye of scouts.
But it was the 2024 Under-19 European Championship where Smit truly exploded onto the scene. He didn’t just help the Netherlands secure the trophy – he dominated the tournament, claiming both the Golden Boot *and* Player of the Tournament honors, a feat almost unheard of for a midfielder.
The accolades haven’t gone unnoticed. Even Dutch national team manager Ronald Koeman has publicly lauded Smit, drawing comparisons to Barcelona’s celebrated playmaker, Pedri, hinting at a similar profile and playing style.
Liverpool’s interest isn’t a recent development. Scouts have been closely monitoring Smit for months, and manager Arne Slot, intimately familiar with the Eredivisie, believes the young talent possesses the technical skill, intelligence, and relentless work ethic needed to thrive in the Premier League.
AZ Alkmaar recognizes they have a generational talent on their hands and are bracing for a significant offer. They are expected to demand a transfer fee exceeding their current record sale of €25 million, setting the stage for a potentially fierce bidding war.
Estimates suggest a fee in the €30-35 million range, but that figure could easily climb as Europe’s giants jostle for position. Smit himself is eager to test his abilities at the highest level, and the allure of joining a club with Liverpool’s history and ambition could prove to be the deciding factor.
The coming months promise to be pivotal in Smit’s career, and Liverpool is now firmly positioned at the forefront of a transfer saga that is sure to captivate football fans across Europe.
