Rising Star Smit Attracts Attention from Europe’s Elite Clubs

Smit’s profile significantly rose in early 2023 when he scored from the halfway line against Barcelona in the UEFA Youth League. He further solidified his reputation last summer by excelling in the European Under-19 Championship, where the Netherlands secured the trophy. Smit finished as joint top scorer and was named the tournament’s best player, prompting European scouts to prioritize him as a coveted talent.

Having already surpassed the 50-appearance mark for AZ, Smit has also participated in European competitions and received commendations from national team manager Ronald Koeman, who recently likened his abilities to those of Barcelona’s Pedri.

According to The Daily Mail, top European clubs including Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Borussia Dortmund are closely monitoring Smit. However, there is a prevailing belief in the Netherlands that he may prefer to join a club that offers regular first-team opportunities rather than rushing to one of Europe’s elite. Newcastle United is reportedly looking to capitalize on this situation. The club’s new sporting director, Ross Wilson, is spearheading a recruitment strategy aimed at acquiring the continent’s leading young talents, and Smit fits this profile perfectly. With Joelinton struggling to regain form and Joe Willock facing a disrupted season due to injuries, Newcastle recognizes the urgent need to bolster their midfield for the future. Additionally, uncertainty surrounds the long-term prospects of Sandro Tonali, which complicates squad planning. Crystal Palace has also expressed interest in Smit, particularly after facing him during AZ’s 3-1 defeat at Selhurst Park in the Europa Conference League.

Koeman’s public endorsement has further elevated Smit’s profile. He stated, “He possesses the awareness to receive the ball in tight spaces and advance it. This quality is highly valued. The comparison to Pedri arises from his positioning and decision-making under pressure. Major clubs monitor players with such attributes, which is to be expected. What’s crucial is that he continues to develop in his current environment, playing regularly.”

Dutch media have even drawn stylistic comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne, as many believe Smit will soon become a regular member of the national team. However, Frenkie de Jong, who has partnered with Pedri at Barcelona, offered a more tempered response to Koeman’s comments. “We’ve discussed him at training camp before,” de Jong said. “I don’t think there’s another player like Pedri. It’s not fitting to apply such pressure on him. He possesses considerable talent and potential, but let’s allow him the space to play football and see how it unfolds.”

As reported by Sky Sports News, AZ will not obstruct Smit’s potential transfer if a suitable offer arises. However, they expect to surpass their current outgoing record fee of £21.8 million, previously set by AC Milan for Tijjani Reijnders, with this sale. Should the competition for Smit intensify, Barcelona may hold an advantage, as he is a self-proclaimed fan of the club.

When asked about Koeman’s praise and the comparisons to Pedri, Smit remarked, “If he thinks so, maybe it is valid. I wasn’t expecting it, but it’s a good comparison. Previously, I was likened to De Bruyne, and now to Pedri (laughs). Or Frenkie de Jong. I realize that people might find this comparison unusual. I watch nearly every Barcelona match; it is simply my favorite club.”

For the time being, Smit remains focused on AZ’s ongoing campaign, although the anticipation surrounding his future transfer continues to grow.