Dutch teenager Kees Smit is on the verge of leaving the Eredivisie, attracting interest from several Premier League clubs eager to sign the midfielder.
Having developed his skills at AZ, Smit is set to provide a significant financial boost to the club. Notably, he spearheaded AZ to victory in the UEFA Youth League for the 2022/23 season, overcoming many established academy sides.
Along the way, AZ triumphed over Hajduk Split 5-0 in the final and defeated renowned teams like Eintracht Frankfurt (5-0), Real Madrid (4-0), and FC Barcelona (3-0).
Kees Smit is one of European football's most sought-after players in 2026
Additionally, in 2023, Smit showcased his talent at the REWE Junior Cup, an indoor tournament in Germany, where he was honored as the best player, impressing with his technical skills.
A standout moment included a remarkable goal against Fulham, where after stealing possession and maneuvering through challenges, he clever kicked the ball off the perimeter board to score, leaving the goalkeeper bewildered.
Smit’s game style is all-action with an energetic approach, reminiscent of the 'tiki-taka' philosophy.
While currently compared to Spain’s renowned midfielder Pedri, Smit's athleticism may offer advantages in adapting to the intensity of the Premier League, despite Pedri’s current accolades.
His technical prowess and agility enable him to excel in tight spaces without complicating play. For a player of his age, the future appears bright.
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Smit's performance against Crystal Palace in the Europa Conference League aptly illustrates his decision-making. Despite opponents identifying him as a key player, he effectively navigated their pressure with finesse.
The youngster knows how to exploit gaps, combining dribbling and carrying the ball, making him versatile for both transitional and possession-heavy gameplay.
It's crucial to remember the unpredictability in football. However, signs suggest that Smit is on track to become a Premier League star, drawing comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne.
DID YOU KNOW: During the UEFA Youth League win, Smit executed an audacious halfway-line lob against Barcelona.
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