Arne Slot could be key to Liverpool signing Kees Smit after 'tentative' transfer interest
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Liverpool FC NewsFeaturesTransfersKees Smit has been highly regarded in the Eredivisie for several years, and this summer could be the one that sees him make the big move to a major European leagueKees Smit has been linked with a move to Liverpool(Image: 2026 BSR Agency)Liverpool is reported to be showing tentative interest in AZ Alkmaar prospect Kees Smith, as the Reds look to bolster their midfield options during the summer transfer window.Smit has been highly regarded in the Eredivisie for several years, and this summer could be the one that sees him make the big move to a major league.Known for his ability to control the tempo, navigate between the lines, and contribute both creatively and with goals, Smit has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.Liverpool head coach Slot knows Smit from his time as a manager in the Netherlands, as he was at AZ while Smit was coming through the Alkmaar club's academy.READ MORE: Crystal Palace handed fitness boost as Liverpool gets chance to assess transfer targetREAD MORE: Arne Slot shares Michael Olise admiration in honest Crystal Palace verdictA key factor in Liverpool’s interest appears to be Slot’s personal connection to the player. Although Smit was too young to be involved in AZ's first team at the time, Slot was employed by the club for three years, initially as assistant manager from 2017 to 2019 before becoming head coach the following season.Smit was linked with a move away from AZ during the January transfer window, and although he ended up staying put on that occasion, a move away from the Dutch club is likely this summer.Smit is contracted to AZ until 2028, but it seems unlikely that he will see out that deal amid the interest in him from a host of European giants.In an interview with De Telegraaf in December, Smit said that he hopes to move on over the next couple of years.
"How long do I see myself at AZ? I think six months or a year-and-a-half, after that, I hope to have taken the next step.Smit is highly regarded in the Netherlands(Image: Getty Images)"I expect my transfer to be completed for €30m.
It would be AZ's most expensive signing and would be good for the club."My next step is outside of the Netherlands, I don't find it difficult to deal with [the speculation]. In fact, I think it's wonderful and I've started thinking about it."Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman previously likened Smit to Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong."Kees Smit is a player I look at [as a possible option for the 2026 World Cup]," Koeman said."I once knew Pedri at Barcelona and I see things in him now… the turning, the scanning, the vision, the two-footedness.