As Barcelona gears up for the summer transfer window, midfield reinforcement is a key consideration, especially with the potential departure of Marc Casado. In the hunt for new talent, AZ Alkmaar’s dynamic midfielder, Kees Smit, has emerged as a notable prospect.
Smit, widely regarded as one of Europe’s burgeoning talents, is expected to make a significant move this summer. Barcelona holds an advantage as the 20-year-old is a known admirer of the club. Furthermore, his national team manager, Ronald Koeman, has expressed his belief that a transfer to Barcelona would be highly beneficial for Smit’s career.
“He’s a player for Barça,” Koeman stated, as reported by Diario AS. “He could be a mix of Frenkie de Jong and Pedri. If you’re a mix of the two, you’re very good. He’s going to join a big team outside of the Netherlands because no one in Holland can afford the money needed to keep him for another year. He’s one of the best young players we’ve had, but he still needs to learn more and play more games.”
While Smit is not currently at the top of Barcelona’s priority list, this could change as the summer approaches. However, if a move to Spain materializes, Real Madrid is also reportedly interested, considering him a prime candidate to bolster their midfield at the Bernabeu.
Barcelona’s financial constraints and the prioritization of other positions may make it challenging to secure Smit’s signature, despite their interest and his preference for the club. The summer transfer window will reveal where this promising young midfielder will land.
