#kees-smit

#kees-smit

The 20-year-old AZ Alkmaar standout has attracted sustained interest from Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United, all of whom explored potential deals during the January transfer window, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside. Smit's rise in the Eredivisie has been swift and eye-catching. Comfortable dictating play from deep while also capable of driving forward with the ball, the Dutch youth international has developed a reputation for showing maturity beyond years.

Crystal Palace are reportedly showing an interest in a potential transfer move for Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock this January. The 26-year-old started brightly when he first joined the Magpies from Arsenal, but he's now fallen down the pecking order in Eddie Howe's squad, and that's put his future in some doubt. It seems Newcastle could now be prepared to let Willock go as long as they look to recoup the 21m they paid for him, according to the Telegraph.

The Catalans reportedly see him to be very similar to Pedri in terms of his profile and thus see him to be a very valuable talent who can flourish at the club. In particular, Barcelona reportedly value Smit's ability to play between lines with ease, his creativity and style of play - all of which they see to complement Barcelona's style.

I almost regret mentioning his name again [Pedri], but he's a guy who plays in the same position,

"He's in good form," De Jong said while speaking to ESPN.nl.

Crystal Palace face a crucial few days with crunch matches in the Conference League and Premier League. The Eagles host AZ Alkmaar tonight attempting to make it two wins in the league phase following the shock defeat to AEK Larnaca last time out. And then they host M23 Derby rivals Brighton at Selhurst Park on Sunday. AZ have won their last five in all competitions and their man to watch is teenage midfielder Kees Smit, who is reportedly on the radar of Real Madrid.