Kees Smit transfer fee increased amid Manchester United interest

Manchester United have been busy assessing their midfield options ahead of the January transfer window, with Ruben Amorim keen to ensure his squad has depth and quality heading into the new year part of the season.

Across Europe, several clubs are already planning potential moves, with many managers monitoring emerging young talent to strengthen their squads.

Clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Dortmund are always on the lookout for players who can make an immediate impact, and scouting networks are working overtime to identify the next big prospect.

January often brings surprises, but most top clubs prefer to wait until the summer to secure players who have already proven themselves at senior level.

For United, timing and strategic investment will be crucial if they are to land the right talent without overpaying.

One name currently causing a stir is AZ Alkmaar’s 19-year-old midfielder, Kees Smit.

The young Dutch talent has begun attracting serious interest from across Europe, with Newcastle United reportedly exploring a potential move in January after making enquiries over the summer.

AZ, however, were not considering a sale at the time, signalling that any deal would require significant negotiation.

Sources at AZ, according to The Athletic, have confirmed that Manchester United, Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Borussia Dortmund are all monitoring Kees Smit.

The club has made it clear that a transfer would demand a fee of around £53 million, a substantial increase from initial reports that suggested a £25 million figure.

The Dutch side have no release clause in the player’s contract and have stressed that they do not intend to let him go during the winter window, meaning any club hoping to secure him would likely need to wait until summer.

Newcastle believe their best chance to sign Smit is in January, but they are aware they would need to be aggressive and decisive, knowing Europe’s biggest clubs are also circling.

For United, the reported fee presents a clear benchmark and will test the club’s willingness to invest in a young midfielder with immense potential.

Smit’s decision will ultimately hinge on the opportunities presented by the continent’s elite, and whether United can convince the teenager that Old Trafford is the right place to take the next step in his career.