Newcastle United are weighing whether an early move could give them a realistic chance of landing highly rated midfielder Kees Smit, despite significant competition from across Europe, according to The Athletic’s Chris Waugh.
Responding to a fan question during his latest Newcastle Q&A, Waugh wrote there is a clear internal understanding that Newcastle are “not favourites” to sign the 19-year-old, who currently plays for AZ Alkmaar.
Interest from multiple European clubs is expected to intensify if Smit
remains in the Netherlands until the summer, but Newcastle are already trying to come up with a masterful move to beat them all.
“There is an acceptance within Newcastle that they are not favourites to sign Smit, given the competition they face,” Waugh wrote. “They recognise that if they wait until next summer, then a queue of European clubs will be competing to bring in the 19-year-old midfielder and that their chances would diminish.”
That assessment is driving internal discussion over whether acting decisively in January could improve their position. Waugh reported that some inside Newcastle United believe a strong winter approach in January could disrupt their rivals’ plans.
“But the hope at least some inside the club have is that, should they act quickly and make a strong pitch in January, that may catch others out,” Waugh wrote.
One factor Newcastle believe could work in their favour is the ability to outline a clearer pathway to first-team involvement for Kees Smit, who is already a Netherlands Under-21 international.
“A factor in Newcastle’s favour is they can offer the Netherlands Under-21 international game time — not guaranteed, as that would never be the case, but a clear pathway to minutes, especially if Willock leaves — which some of their rivals for his signature cannot,” Waugh wrote.
Even so, obstacles remain. Waugh noted that AZ “have suggested they are not looking to let Smit leave mid-season” and that the player himself “may be minded to wait until the summer when he is likely to have more options.”
Despite those realities, Waugh added that Newcastle’s interest is genuine and persistent.
“Newcastle do really rate him, though, and the idea they will make a play for him has never been quashed.”
