The 19-year-old Smit left a lasting impression in recent years, starting with a triumphant UEFA Youth League campaign in 2023. Following this win, Smit gradually rose the ranks at AZ and the Dutch national teams, winning last summer's Under-19 European Championships and claiming the tournament's Golden Boot and Best Player awards.
According to transfer insider Mounir Boualin, Liverpool are seriously interested in Kees Smit and have joined the fight for the youngster. FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Bayern Munich are all reportedly after Smit, who broke into AZ's starting XI this season.
The Alkmaar outfit are reportedly demanding a club-record fee for Smit, who should bring in more than Tijjani Reijnders did in 2023, when Milan paid €23 million for the midfielder. Expected is that AZ will demand around €25 million for Smit.
In 19 appearances across all competitions this season, Smit has scored two goals and assisted a further four. The 19-year-old has also made his debut for the Netherlands' U21 team.