Manchester United are now moving forward with negotiations to sign AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, and it is revealed that a formal offer is in the works…
With Casemiro’s contract expiring at the end of the season and Kobbie Mainoo’s future still uncertain, having already discussed a January departure, it is no wonder that Ruben Amorim is keen to bring in a new central midfielder, and a Premier League player has recently joined the shortlist.
With Carlos Baleba’s Man United dream goal and a recently hatched approach for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, there is no shortage of interesting options, although it was recently revealed that Amorim are keen to sign two midfielders ahead of next season.
Premier League recruitment this summer has served United well so far this season, with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha becoming key players, but a move towards a slightly more left-sided central midfielder is now gaining traction.
Man Utd advance in negotiations to sign Kees Smit
That’s according to a Spanish report, which states that Man United are progressing negotiations with AZ Alkmaar over a deal for Smit, with an opening bid in progress, and that the deal could be finalized when the Amorim side formalize their “final” offer.
The 19-year-old has attracted attention due to his passing and ability in transition, and it is believed he would be able to adapt to life in the Premier League, although he is still relatively inexperienced.
The midfielder is valued at just €25m (£22m), meaning a deal wouldn’t break the bank, and there could be money left over to pursue players like Baleba or Anderson, with Alkmaar also prepared to sanction a move away.
Deemed a “dueling monster” by scout Ben Mattinson, the teenager has already established himself as a key player for Alkmaar, collecting two goals and four assists in all competitions this season, while his performances last season indicate he could be the future of the Dutch national team.
There may be concerns that the Dutchman is yet to prove himself outside his home country, but a deal would be relatively inexpensive at just £22 million, so it would certainly be a low-risk move.
Smit is extremely comfortable in possession, placing himself in the 90th percentile for successful stands and progressive runs per 90 over the past year, and it would be fantastic if Man United were able to beat Liverpool and Barcelona to his signature.
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