Liverpool are once again being linked with one of Europe’s brightest young names, and this time the spotlight is on the Netherlands.
The rumors around AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit have started to heat up, with reports claiming Arne Slot himself is pushing for the teenage talent.
But why is Slot so invested in this player? And what makes Smit stand out in a market full of young midfield prospects? That is where the curiosity begins.
Why Slot wants Kees Smit at Liverpool?
According to Dutch reports (via SportWitness), Slot has admired Smit since the midfielder was barely in double digits. During Slot’s time at AZ, Smit was a youth player with early signs of sharp awareness and strong technique.
One outlet even noted that Slot was “charmed” by the youngster’s ability at just 10 or 11 years old.
Liverpool have reportedly followed Smit for several months. The midfielder’s rise in 2025 has only added fuel to the discussion. He has established himself as a regular for AZ this season, delivering goals, assists, and steady performances in the Eredivisie.
His profile fits Slot’s style: two-footed, smart in tight spaces, and always scanning the pitch — a bit like a midfielder who checks his mirrors more than a taxi driver in Amsterdam.
Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman added more praise, saying: “I once experienced Pedri as a coach of Barcelona. And now I see things with Smit that I also saw with Pedri.”
That comparison has naturally turned heads across Europe.
Kees Smit – Percentile Rankings Table vs other midfielders
| Category | Percentile |
|---|---|
| Attacking | |
| Shots Total | 81 |
| npxG + xAG | 91 |
| Shot-Creating Actions | 94 |
| Non-Penalty Goals | 90 |
| Assists | 66 |
| Possession | |
| Passes Attempted | 57 |
| Pass Completion % | 67 |
| Progressive Passes | 72 |
| Progressive Carries | 90 |
| Successful Take-Ons | 90 |
| Touches (Att Pen) | 92 |
| Progressive Passes Received | 81 |
| Defending | |
| Interceptions | 47 |
| Tackles | 35 |
| Blocks | 8 |
| Clearances | 32 |
The growing battle for Smit
Liverpool are not alone in the chase. Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, and Manchester United are all reportedly keeping a close eye on the 19-year-old.
When so many giants enter the conversation, the price tends to rise quicker than a late-game counterpress.
AZ are expected to demand more than their current record sale — around €25 million — which places Smit in the same bracket as other highly rated European playmakers. His contract runs until 2028, giving AZ strong leverage.
However, insiders say Smit is open to taking the next step in his career, and a move to the Premier League is firmly on his radar. For Liverpool, this could be an opportunity to secure a long-term midfielder who fits Slot’s vision before the competition tightens even further.
A midfield option for the future, not just January
With Liverpool unlikely to spend heavily this winter, any potential move for Smit seems more suited to the summer window. The club oversaw large spending last year, and current priorities appear to be long-term squad planning rather than mid-season solutions.
Still, Smit’s age, output, and tactical maturity make him exactly the type of player Liverpool’s recruitment team tends to favor. And Slot’s personal history with him only strengthens the connection.
If the Reds decide to act, they would be signing not just a prospect, but a midfielder already performing at senior level.
What Anfield Home thinks
Kees Smit looks like a smart long-term investment. His rise is real, his numbers are solid, and his skill set fits the way Arne Slot wants Liverpool to play. The manager’s admiration gives the Reds a natural advantage.
But Liverpool must judge the timing carefully. With heavy competition and a rising price tag, the club should only move if they see Smit as a core part of the next midfield cycle — not just another name on a long list.