Liverpool weigh up move for AZ prodigy Smit as Slot eyes reunion
Liverpool are considering a formal approach for AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, with manager Arne Slot understood to be a long-time admirer of the 19-year-old. The Dutch youngster has been one of the Eredivisie’s standout performers in 2025, sparking interest from several top European clubs.
Smit’s rise attracting elite interest
Smit’s emergence this year has been nothing short of remarkable. Operating primarily as an attacking midfielder, he has contributed 12 goals and seven assists across all competitions for AZ, numbers that have quickly turned heads beyond the Netherlands. Borussia Dortmund, Newcastle United, Barcelona and Real Madrid are among those believed to be monitoring his progress closely.
Sources in England – mentioned by SportWitness – have indicated that Liverpool are now seriously weighing up a bid, viewing Smit as a potential long-term addition to their midfield. His ability to dictate tempo, glide between lines and contribute both creatively and directly to goals has made him one of Europe’s most talked-about young talents.
Slot’s admiration and connection with Smit
Arne Slot’s personal connection to Smit appears to be a driving factor in Liverpool’s growing interest. The Reds manager first encountered the midfielder during his time at AZ Alkmaar, initially as assistant manager between 2017 and 2019 before taking the head coach role the following season.
Reports from the Netherlands suggest Slot was “charmed” by Smit’s technical ability and intelligence from a young age. Those who worked with the player describe him as tactically mature beyond his years and mentally robust—qualities that fit seamlessly with the type of football Slot has tried to implement at Liverpool since taking charge.
Having already integrated several Dutch players into his plans, Slot is believed to see Smit as a natural fit for his evolving system. Liverpool scouts have been tracking his progress for months, and discussions within the club have turned increasingly serious in recent weeks.
Competition intensifies for Dutch starlet
Liverpool are far from alone in the chase. Borussia Dortmund, known for developing young talent, have already held preliminary talks with AZ’s representatives, while Barcelona and Real Madrid are assessing the financial feasibility of a move. Newcastle United are also believed to have scouted Smit extensively as part of their long-term recruitment strategy.
AZ Alkmaar are expected to demand a significant fee, though Smit’s current contract runs until 2028, placing the Dutch side in a strong negotiating position. However, those close to the player say he is eager to test himself at the highest level, which could accelerate any potential deal.
Koeman’s praise fuels growing reputation
Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has added to the excitement surrounding Smit, comparing him to Barcelona’s Pedri—a compliment that underlines the teenager’s creative flair and intelligence on the ball. Such high praise from a national team coach has only heightened interest from major clubs, with Liverpool’s connection through Slot potentially giving them an edge.
Liverpool’s hierarchy are reportedly evaluating the financials and long-term squad balance before deciding whether to submit a formal offer. With competition from across Europe intensifying, the coming weeks could prove decisive in determining where Smit’s next chapter begins.
For Slot, it would represent a reunion with a player he has admired for years—a chance to bring one of the Netherlands’ most exciting young midfielders into a Liverpool side still adapting to his tactical blueprint.
