Netherlands Coach Endorses Kees Smit for Potential Barcelona Transfer
Netherlands coach backs Eredivisie breakout star for Barcelona move: ‘A mix of De Jong and Pedri’
Yahoo! NewsImage: Yahoo! News
Kees Smit, a 20-year-old midfielder from AZ Alkmaar, is gaining attention from top European clubs, including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Manchester United. Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has praised Smit's skills, suggesting he could be a blend of Frenkie de Jong and Pedri, while Smit himself has expressed a desire to play in La Liga.
- 01Kees Smit is a standout 20-year-old midfielder from AZ Alkmaar.
- 02Ronald Koeman endorses Smit as a fit for Barcelona's playing style.
- 03Smit has attracted interest from several major European clubs.
- 04He has expressed a strong desire to play in La Liga, particularly for Barcelona.
- 05AZ Alkmaar may not be able to afford to keep Smit beyond this season.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Kees Smit, a promising 20-year-old midfielder from AZ Alkmaar in the Netherlands, is emerging as a key target for several top European clubs, including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Manchester United. With his impressive performances, Smit has captured the attention of the football world, and former Barcelona manager and current Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has publicly endorsed him for a move to the Catalan club. Koeman described Smit as a potential mix of Frenkie de Jong and Pedri, highlighting his suitability for Barcelona's style of play. Smit himself has expressed a strong desire to play in La Liga, citing his admiration for Barcelona and its legendary players like Andrés Iniesta and Lionel Messi. Despite being under contract until 2028, AZ Alkmaar recognizes the financial realities and the growing market value of Smit, making a summer transfer increasingly likely.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
If Kees Smit transfers to a top club, it could influence the financial dynamics of AZ Alkmaar and the Eredivisie.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you think Kees Smit would be a good fit for Barcelona?
Connecting to poll...
More about AZ Alkmaar
Liverpool Competes for €50 Million Dutch Midfielder Kees Smit Amidst European Interest
Yahoo! News • Apr 12, 2026
Manchester United Targets AZ Alkmaar's Kees Smit for Midfield Overhaul
Yahoo! News • Apr 11, 2026
Manchester United Eyes €45 Million Midfielder Kees Smit from AZ Alkmaar
Yahoo! News • Apr 10, 2026
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.
