You can tell we are moving closer to the January transfer window, as another new link has emerged today on potential incoming business at St James’ Park.
We shared news of our ‘interest’ in Club Brugge talent Aleksandar Stankovic earlier today, but another highly-rated midfielder is now being tipped to arrive on Tyneside in Kees Smit.
This comes via The Mail’s Craig Hope, who reveals that Newcastle are pushing to land the 19-year-old Dutchman ahead of a number of European giants.
Currently at AZ Alkmaar, the technical midfielder has drawn comparisons to former Man City star Kevin De Bruyne and has been watched by Barcelona, Real Madrid Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich.
His contract expires in 2028 and Hope reports that a £20m fee may be enough to land the youngster, who has over 50 appearances for AZ and recently played in their Europa Conference League clash with Crystal Palace.
New sporting director Ross Wilson is eager to recruit some of Europe’s top talent with potential to improve under Eddie Howe, and it’s thought Newcastle are confident of beating rivals to a deal, with the offer of game time in the Premier League likely to appeal.
It’s not clear if this would be a January move or one we’ll pursue next summer, but with Joe Willock’s position in the squad under threat and Joelinton turning 30 next year, Howe may add some fresh legs to his three-man midfield.
Dutch boss Ronald Koeman recently compared Smit to Spanish sensation Pedri, having this to say on the AZ star:
“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.”
Crystal Palace are also thought to be admirers of Smit, who stands just over six foot tall and is now a regular in the Dutch Under-21 side.