Newcastle United are planning for the future by targeting a summer move for highly rated AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, as speculation continues to grow over Sandro Tonali’s long-term future at St James’ Park.
The Magpies are preparing for the possibility of a significant change to their midfield, with increasing uncertainty surrounding Tonali’s future amid strong transfer interest from several Premier League rivals.

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly seen an opening £75 million bid for the 26-year-old Italy international rejected by Newcastle. With reported interest from Manchester City and Arsenal also growing, the Magpies’ recruitment team is already assessing potential replacements should a blockbuster transfer eventually materialise.
Enter Kees Smit, the highly rated 20-year-old AZ Alkmaar midfielder who has emerged as one of the Eredivisie’s brightest young talents.
Widely praised by scouts for his creativity, composure under pressure and ability to dictate play from deep, Smit’s impressive performances for AZ Alkmaar have firmly placed him on Newcastle’s radar.
Replacing an established international like Tonali would be no easy task for manager Eddie Howe. However, Smit’s vision, press resistance and outstanding ball distribution make him an attractive long-term option to help lead Newcastle’s midfield into its next phase.
Landing the Dutchman’s signature will not be straightforward, however. Smit has previously suggested that a move to La Liga would appeal to him, citing a preference for warmer weather over the colder climates of Northern Europe.
Despite those potential obstacles, Newcastle remain undeterred, believing that securing a talent of Smit’s calibre could prove crucial to the club’s long-term ambitions as they continue to strengthen their squad for the future.