(Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
Chelsea has initiated negotiations to acquire Kees Smit, a talented midfielder from the Netherlands, ahead of the opening of the January transfer window, as reported by multiple sources including iNews.
The 19-year-old has caught the eye of many with his standout performances in the Eredivisie, emerging as one of Europe’s most promising young talents.
His capability to control the pace of the game has led to comparisons with notable players such as Frenkie de Jong and Martin Ødegaard.
Various elite clubs have taken notice of his abilities, with Chelsea and Newcastle United emerging as the top contenders for his transfer.
Chelsea Engages with AZ Alkmaar Regarding Transfer
According to insiders at Chelsea, the club’s recruitment team has already reached out to Smit’s representatives to assess the possibility of a deal, as they look to create one of the youngest and most dynamic squads in the Premier League.
Despite the £25 million price tag being considered reasonable, Chelsea’s management is cautious, adhering to Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and likely needing to offload a few players before making such a significant investment in January.
Manager Enzo Maresca is reportedly impressed by Smit’s versatility and strategic thought, viewing him as a potential key player in Chelsea’s evolving midfield alongside Enzo Fernández and Moises Caicedo.
However, the transfer committee is weighing the option of postponing a formal offer until the summer, when financial conditions might allow for more flexibility.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United is also preparing to make a move. The Magpies are “definitely considering” a bid for Smit in January, seeing him as a player who can bolster Eddie Howe’s squad for both domestic and European competitions.
Newcastle is expected to present a formal offer shortly after the winter transfer window opens, with indications that Smit is interested in the chance to compete in the Premier League.
Impressive Performance in Current Season
n
