Liverpool transfer news as $28M summer target confirms where he wants to play

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Liverpool IconLiverpool FC NewsFeaturesLiverpool FCLiverpool has been linked with a move for AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit — but the 20-year-old has admitted that he would like to play in La Liga in the futureKees Smit continues to be linked with Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)Dutch sensation Kees Smit has confessed his aspiration to play in Spain in the future, despite Liverpool showing interest.The Reds have been associated with a move for the AZ Alkmaar midfielder for quite some time. However, while they remain in the running, it seems that Smit has dreams of playing elsewhere, specifically in La Liga.In a conversation with SuperGaande, the 20-year-old expressed: "I really enjoyed watching Barca.

I grew up watching (Andres) Iniesta and (Lionel) Messi, who I consider two of my role models."READ MORE: Arne Slot addresses Liverpool fans' boos and sends message on club's 'standard'READ MORE: Liverpool's private Richard Hughes stance as sporting director 'on shortlist' for Saudi jobWhen asked about his preferred league to play in, Smit responded: "La Liga. It's simply my favorite club.

I love watching Pedri and Frenkie de Jong."Smit is impressing in the Netherlands(Image: Getty Images)While a transfer to Spain and Barcelona could indeed be in the cards in the future, Smit has commented on the likelihood of him leaving AZ, stating it's something he hasn't yet contemplated.He stated: "I never considered leaving AZ. Ideally, it would be a step to another Dutch team, but I don't think that's going to happen."Smit is a graduate of the AZ academy, having ascended through the club's youth ranks to make 69 first-team appearances.The lion's share of those matches have taken place this season, with Smit clocking up 38 appearances across all competitions and netting four goals.Should Smit make the switch to Liverpool, he would be joining a number of his fellow countrymen at Anfield, including manager Arne Slot, as well as Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, Jeremie Frimpong and Cody Gakpo.According to Transfermarkt, Smit is valued at €25 million ($28.7 million).Liverpool has had a less-than-stellar season this time around, with its Champions League spot seriously in jeopardy.