Manchester United are turning their attention to Dutch wonderkid Kees Smit, hoping he could finally help solve the team’s long-standing midfield problems. Below you will see information about is news which has been summarized The Football Insight.
The 19-year-old has been one of AZ Alkmaar’s most impressive academy graduates, and his performances have sparked interest from clubs across Europe. United scouts have followed him closely this season, with Director of Recruitment Christopher Vivell already discussing the teenager as a top target.
What makes Smit appealing to United is his blend of maturity, tactical intelligence and technical skill at such a young age. Despite being only 19, he plays with the calmness of a seasoned professional. AZ are expected to demand around £25 million an affordable price in today’s market, especially for a player with such promise. But United won’t have a free run at him.
Newcastle United are emerging as serious contenders, and several European clubs have already made enquiries. With the competition increasing, United may need to move quickly to avoid missing out. Still, a January transfer is unlikely, meaning any deal would more realistically happen in the summer.
Why United Need Midfield Reinforcements Now
United’s midfield troubles have been building for years. Casemiro, once a dominant force, is now showing signs of ageing and slowing down. His reduced mobility has often exposed the defence, creating gaps that opponents exploit. Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes has been pushed into deeper roles at times, limiting his creative influence.
The brightest young talent in the squad, Kobbie Mainoo, has shown enormous potential but cannot be relied on to carry the midfield alone. United want to protect his development rather than overload him with responsibility. There is still no true holding midfielder capable of dictating play and controlling transitions something manager Ruben Amorim’s system relies heavily on.
United’s plan is clear: build a midfield that plays with control instead of chaos. They need a player who can anchor possession, manage tempo and bring balance to the team. Smit fits that profile, which is why he has quickly become a serious target.
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The Rise of Kees Smit at AZ Alkmaar
Smit’s development at AZ has been rapid. Known for producing smart, technically gifted players, AZ’s academy has shaped Smit into one of the Netherlands’ most exciting young midfielders. He has captained youth teams above his age group and gained early senior experience with Jong AZ, where he impressed with his maturity and decision-making.
On the pitch, Smit plays primarily as a deep-lying midfielder. He reads the game well, protects the defence and controls the tempo with a wide passing range. His ability to switch between short, sharp passes and long, progressive ones makes him the heartbeat of AZ’s build-up. Some compare him to Frenkie de Jong, except with stronger defensive instincts. At just 19, he already looks like a player ready for a major league step up. That is why so many top clubs are circling.
The Transfer Battle Ahead
With so much interest building, Manchester United will need to decide quickly whether to push forward with their pursuit. Newcastle’s growing involvement increases the pressure, and several European giants are preparing to enter the race. Delaying too long could easily see United miss out on a player who fits exactly what they need.
A summer move appears most likely, giving United time to restructure their squad and plan for outgoing players. For Smit, the coming months will be crucial as he chooses his next destination and continues to develop under AZ. One thing is certain: demand for him is rising fast, and the fight to sign him is only heating up. Follow footballcoasters.co.uk for weekly deep dives into football’s biggest story.