
Gigantes en apuros
Sevilla, Valencia y otros equipos en riesgo de descenso. ¿Quién lo tiene peor?
Netherlands coach endorses AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit for a potential move to Barcelona, describing him as a blend of De Jong and Pedri. The 20-year-old is attracting interest from several top European clubs ahead of the summer transfer window.
Netherlands coach backs Eredivisie breakout star for Barcelona move: âA mix of De Jong and Pedriâ
Barcelona are closely monitoring one of the most exciting midfield prospects in Europe, with Kees Smit emerging as a potential target ahead of the summer transfer window.
The 20-year-old AZ Alkmaar midfielder has attracted strong interest from across the continent, with clubs such as Real Madrid, Manchester United, Newcastle United and Borussia Dortmund all keeping tabs on his development.
With demand rising, Smit is becoming one of the standout names in the 2026 summer transfer market.
Amid this growing attention, former Barcelona manager and current Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman has publicly endorsed the youngster, strongly backing his suitability for the Catalan giants.
Speaking about Smitâs profile and potential, Koeman did not hesitate to link him directly with Barcelonaâs style of play.
Kees Smit is a 20-year-old midfielder from AZ Alkmaar, being linked to Barcelona due to his impressive performances and potential, with the Netherlands coach highlighting his talent.
In addition to Barcelona, clubs like Real Madrid, Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Borussia Dortmund are also monitoring Kees Smit's development.
Kees Smit is considered a breakout star in the Eredivisie, showcasing skills that have drawn significant attention from top European clubs, making him a key target for the upcoming transfer window.

Sevilla, Valencia y otros equipos en riesgo de descenso. ¿Quién lo tiene peor?

Tony Rowe discusses Exeter Chiefs' potential sale to American investors.

Why is Arsenal's attack misfiring? Mikel Arteta needs to change tactics.
LIV Golf may shut down by the end of 2026 due to funding issues.
Joey Bart's Heartwarming Gesture for Braxton Ashcraft's Gender Reveal
Declan Rice declares Arsenal is prepared to face Manchester City at the Etihad!
See every story in Sports â including breaking news and analysis.
âHeâs a player for Barça. He could be a mix of Frenkie [De Jong] and Pedri. If youâre a mix of the two, youâre very good,â said Koeman.
Koeman also made it clear that a move away from the Netherlands appears inevitable, pointing to the financial realities surrounding AZ Alkmaar and the growing market value of the player.
âItâs going to be a big club outside the Netherlands, because in the Netherlands nobody can afford the money needed to keep him for another year,â he explained.
Kees Smit wants to play in La Liga. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Interestingly, Smit himself has already hinted at his preferred destination, and his comments will undoubtedly excite Barcelona supporters.
The midfielder had admitted his desire to play in Spain in the past, suggesting that a move to La Liga is on his radar.
âLa Liga. Playing there would be great. I love the sun, Iâm tired of playing in so much cold and rain, so Iâd like to go and play in Spain,â Smit revealed.
His admiration for Barcelona runs even deeper, as the youngster has grown up watching the club and idolising some of its greatest players.
âI really enjoyed watching Barça. I grew up watching Iniesta and Messi play, who I consider two of my role models,â the youngster said.
Despite being under contract until 2028, AZ Alkmaar are realistic about the situation.
With interest mounting and the playerâs profile rising rapidly, a summer transfer cannot be ruled out.
Source: AS