Liverpool have reportedly been offered the opportunity to rival Newcastle United in the race to sign highly rated AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, with the Dutch club believed to value the 20-year-old at around €60 million (£52m).

The two Premier League clubs have been linked with several of the same transfer targets in recent windows, and reports now suggest they could once again go head-to-head for one of Dutch football’s brightest young talents.
According to TEAMtalk journalist Graeme Bailey, Newcastle have intensified their interest in Smit after monitoring the midfielder’s development for an extended period. The Magpies are understood to be impressed by his technical ability, composure in possession and intelligence on the ball, viewing him as an ideal long-term addition to their midfield.
However, Newcastle are not alone in the race. Bailey reports that Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea have also been informed of the player’s availability as interest in the Netherlands Under-21 international continues to grow.
AZ Alkmaar are reportedly expected to demand around €60m for Smit, a fee that reflects the club’s high valuation of one of their most promising academy graduates.
Liverpool are also believed to be in the market for midfield reinforcements this summer, although current reports suggest the club’s immediate priority is strengthening their attacking options before making a final decision on midfield targets. Smit is understood to be among a number of players being monitored rather than a confirmed priority.
Despite his enormous potential, Smit remains relatively inexperienced at the highest level. The talented midfielder has earned praise for his vision, passing range and ability to control the tempo of matches, but any club meeting AZ’s asking price would likely be investing as much in his future development as his immediate impact.
With several Premier League clubs now aware of his availability, Newcastle may face fierce competition if they decide to push ahead with a formal offer, while Liverpool could yet emerge as another serious contender should they turn their attention to midfield later in the transfer window.