Barcelona is intensifying its pursuit of a versatile 19-year-old Dutch prodigy to bolster its midfield for the future.
FC Barcelona has a great midfield, featuring stars like Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, Gavi, versatile players like Dani Olmo, and bright young prospects like Guille Fernandez.
But the blaugrana always seek to improve and find stars of tomorrow, with their latest interest being a 19-year-old Dutch talent who is also being courted by rivals Real Madrid.
Both clubs are keeping a close eye on this highly-rated player, and although he is still early in his career, he has the attributes to be one of Europe’s most sought-after players in the years to come.
This player is AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, who plays as a midfielder, but can also play multiple roles, including as a pivot or out wide.
AS reports that Barcelona have been tracking Smit, and he has had 31 appearances for AZ this season, scoring 2 goals and 2 assists.
He has also represented the Netherlands U-19 team 19 times, showing exactly what Barcelona wants.
His contract runs until 2028, so his stock is on the rise.
Smit is a very serious option for Real Madrid in boosting their midfield, and there is a likelihood that they will outbid Barcelona to complete the signing.
Hansi Flick’s Barcelona, aiming to remain ahead of the curve with their reputation for developing young talent, may not ultimately be able to secure Daniel Smit, and financial ramifications may affect their ability to pursue him.
Smit may accommodate Real Madrid’s financial advantages over Barcelona, and RM’s perceived opportunity for a starting position may sway Smit as well; however, Barcelona’s history and reputation with Dutch players may still have an allure for Smit.
With the transfer window upcoming, both clubs will need to act quickly to add Smit as a versatile player across midfield positions who can help any top European team.
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