Newcastle United are reportedly stepping up their efforts to sign highly rated Dutch midfielder Kees Smit from AZ Alkmaar, as sporting director Ross Wilson looks to bring one of Europe’s brightest young talents to St James’ Park.
With the January transfer window fast approaching, Newcastle’s recruitment team is already deep in discussions over potential reinforcements, and Smit has emerged as a top target.
According to reports from The Mail’s Craig Hope, the Magpies are pushing to secure the 19-year-old ahead of several European giants, including Barcelona, Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, and Bayern Munich. Smit, who has been making waves in the Eredivisie, has drawn flattering comparisons to former Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne for his technique, passing range, and intelligence on the ball.
Despite his young age, he has already made more than 50 appearances for AZ Alkmaar and featured recently in their Europa Conference League match against Crystal Palace, where his composure and vision once again caught the eye of scouts.
Newcastle’s interest in Smit aligns with Ross Wilson’s long-term strategy of recruiting talented, high-ceiling players who can grow under Eddie Howe’s guidance.
The club believes that the teenager’s ability and attitude make him an ideal fit for their evolving midfield. It’s understood that a fee in the region of £20 million could be enough to persuade AZ Alkmaar to part ways with their prized asset, whose current contract runs until 2028.
Although such a deal may represent a significant investment for a player of his age, Newcastle see it as a smart move for the future, given Smit’s rapid rise and his potential to become one of Europe’s top midfielders.
Smit’s playing style has earned him a reputation as one of the Netherlands’ most technically gifted prospects. His ability to receive the ball in tight spaces, dictate tempo, and make forward passes under pressure has drawn praise from coaches and pundits alike.
Dutch national team boss Ronald Koeman recently spoke about the youngster’s qualities, comparing him to Spanish sensation Pedri. Koeman said, “He has the awareness to receive in tight spaces and move the ball forward.
That is something we value. The resemblance people see with Pedri is in how he positions himself and his decision-making under pressure. Big clubs follow players with these characteristics. That is normal. What is important is that he continues developing where he is, playing regularly.”
While Newcastle face competition from several top European sides, they remain confident that the chance to play regular football in the Premier League could be a decisive factor.
Unlike the established giants circling for his signature, Newcastle can offer immediate first-team opportunities in one of the most competitive leagues in the world.
The club’s coaching staff believe that Smit’s development would be accelerated in England under Howe, who has shown a consistent ability to nurture and improve young players since taking charge.
It remains unclear whether Newcastle plan to make their move in January or wait until next summer. However, given the team’s current challenges in midfield, a winter approach cannot be ruled out.
With Joe Willock’s position in the squad uncertain following his recent struggles with injury and form, and Joelinton turning 30 next year, Newcastle are keen to inject new energy and creativity into their three-man midfield. Smit’s arrival would not only add depth but also give the side a fresh dynamic in possession something that has been lacking at times this season.
Standing just over six feet tall, Smit combines physical presence with excellent technical ability, a blend that makes him well-suited to the Premier League’s demands.
His calmness on the ball, intelligent positioning, and progressive passing style have made him a standout in the Dutch league, and his performances have already earned him a regular spot in the Netherlands Under-21 side.
Newcastle’s pursuit of Smit follows growing links to other emerging European talents, including Club Brugge’s Aleksandar Stankovic, as the club looks to build a team capable of sustained success both domestically and in Europe.
Wilson’s recruitment strategy has been clear: identify promising players early, secure them before market values skyrocket, and develop them into top performers under Howe’s coaching team.
For Smit, a move to Tyneside could represent the next big step in a career that is already gathering momentum. The lure of Premier League football, combined with the prospect of working under a progressive manager like Eddie Howe, could prove too tempting to resist.
If Newcastle succeed in bringing him to St James’ Park, they won’t just be signing another young midfielder they’ll be adding a player who has the potential to become a cornerstone of their midfield for years to come.
