Liverpool are preparing to enter the race to sign Keith Smit, one of Europe’s hottest young midfielders, with reports in the Netherlands suggesting the Reds are ready to ramp up their interest ahead of the January transfer window.
The 19-year-old AZ Alkmaar sensation is fast emerging as one of Dutch football’s brightest talents and, according to Soccer News, has already attracted the attention of elite clubs such as Barcelona, Real Madrid and Newcastle United.
Liverpool are now positioned as strong candidates to sign the teenager as Arne Slott looks to strengthen their midfield.
Keith Smit attracts attention from top clubs
Mr. Sumit’s rise to power has been nothing short of spectacular. He first came to prominence in AZ Alkmaar’s historic UEFA Youth League championship win in 2023, where he played a key role in this campaign and was recognized for his tactical intelligence and maturity.
His development further accelerated at the 2024 European Under-19 Championship, where he not only helped the Netherlands lift the trophy, but also won both the Golden Boot and Player of the Year awards, an incredibly rare feat for a midfielder.
These achievements brought him to the attention of Europe’s big clubs. Dutch national team coach Ronald Koeman also joined in the praise, publicly comparing Smit’s profile and style to Barcelona’s Pedri.
Sources close to Liverpool say the Reds have been scouting Smit for months and Slot, who is familiar with the Eredivisie talent pool, believes Smit has the technical stability, intelligence and work ethic ideal for a move to the Premier League.
Smit is thought to be interested in a move that would allow him to compete at the highest level, and the opportunity to join Liverpool’s prestigious club could prove decisive.
Liverpool discover price tag for Dutch midfielder Smit
AZ Alkmaar knows they have generational talent and are prepared to negotiate accordingly. According to reports, the Dutch club will demand a fee in excess of the current record sale price of 25 million euros, the amount AC Milan paid for Tijani Lijnders in 2023.
The transfer fee is expected to be between 30 million and 35 million euros, but that figure could rise further if bidding between interested giants intensifies.
Smit is on the verge of a big move and Liverpool are now front and center in the race to dominate the headlines next year.
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