Liverpool Transfer Rival Falls Out of Race for Kees Smit

Liverpool have received a significant boost in their pursuit of AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, as Bayern Munich have reportedly withdrawn from the race.[1]

DaveOCKOP exclusively revealed earlier this month that the Reds hold strong interest in the 20-year-old Dutch talent, who has been tracked by Liverpool's recruitment team. Emerging as one of the Eredivisie's most promising midfielders, Smit primarily plays in central and holding roles. He has already exceeded 30 league appearances, contributing goals and assists domestically and in Europe. This season, he has started most of AZ's fixtures, logging over 1,500 minutes and excelling in productivity and creativity among defensive midfielders. Technically sharp, composed under pressure, and adept at controlling tempo, Smit draws comparisons to Pedri.[1]

Interest in Smit extends beyond Liverpool, with clubs like Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Newcastle also monitoring the homegrown star. AZ Alkmaar, managed by super-agent Jorge Mendes, anticipates a record sale, with demands starting above €60 million and potentially reaching €75 million. A mid-season move was deemed unlikely by Fabrizio Romano, pointing to a summer 2026 transfer.[2][3]

However, BILD journalist Christian Falk clarified that Bayern Munich are not seriously pursuing Smit, citing their midfield depth with players like Aleksandar Pavlović, Tom Bischof, Joshua Kimmich, and Konrad Laimer. Falk noted: "It is not true that Bayern are keeping a very close eye on Kees Smit ahead of the summer. They have players in this position already." He positioned Arsenal, Liverpool, and Real Madrid as frontrunners, potentially threatening Bayern's Leon Goretzka.[1]

Arne Slot's familiarity with Smit from his AZ days gives Liverpool an edge. With midfield concerns amid contracts winding down for Wataru Endo and Curtis Jones, Smit fits Liverpool's strategy of signing young, versatile talents. Reports suggest the Reds are leading, especially after initial talks.[3][4][5][6]

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