AZ Alkmaar’s recent success in the KNVB Cup has placed Kees Smit directly under the spotlight, and not just for his performances on the pitch. Following a dominant 5-1 victory over NEC Nijmegen in the final, where he notched both a goal and an assist, the 20-year-old midfielder is heading to Barcelona to celebrate with his teammates.
With rumors of a summer move to the Camp Nou swirling, Smit didn’t miss the chance to have some fun with the speculation. “If they ask me to negotiate, I am totally willing
to do so. Of course, I have time for it,” Smit joked during an interview with ESPN.
The timing of the trip is tight, as the youngster noted that “it’s the only way to celebrate with the group” before returning to the Netherlands for their final league fixtures.
While the comments were lighthearted, they carry weight considering the situation. He has previously admitted to growing up watching Barça and currently is said to favor a move to La Liga over the Premier League and been linked with a move to the Catalan capital.
But securing his signature will be complicated. According to reports, the competition is fierce, with Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Manchester United all keeping tabs on the Dutch international. AZ are well-positioned to demand a premium, with his contract running until 2028. Figures between €60 million and €80 million are being mentioned, though some valuations suggest a deal could start closer to €50 million.
The hype on this kid is growing. Ronald Koeman, the current Netherlands manager and Barcelona icon and former manager, has been one of his backers. The former defender recently described him as “a player for Barça” and suggested he represents “a mix between Frenkie de Jong and Pedri.” This high praise follows similar sentiments from former Real Madrid and Netherlands attacker Rafael van der Vaart, who recently urged Real to move for the player he called “incredibly good.”
