Manchester United‘s major priority during the upcoming transfer windows will be to find one or more players to strengthen midfield. Whilst big names are being announced, Kees Smit could be the Red Devils' surprise recruit.
After a catastrophic start to the season, illustrated by elimination against Grimsby in the League Cup, fourth-tier residents, Manchester United have recovered rather well. Ruben Amorim's side sit in seventh place in the Premier League, just two points behind third-placed Chelsea. Suffice to say that Champions League qualification is in the Mancunians' sights.
However, to achieve this objective, Manchester United will need to strengthen during the winter transfer window, notably in midfield, a very depleted sector. Many players are being tracked by the Red Devils, most at exorbitant prices. According to information from Caught Offside, a less costly target is also being studied: Kees Smit, AZ Alkmaar's young prodigy.
Kees Smit, the €30m prodigy making Manchester United salivate
A product of the Dutch club's training centre, Kees Smit has established himself this season as an undisputed starter. At 19, he is one of Eredivisie's most promising players. He has scored two goals and provided four assists since the start of the season in 19 matches. Liverpool are also following him. Whilst Kees Smit is valued at €10m (£8.5m) on Transfermarkt, AZ Alkmaar could rather demand a sum of €30m (£25.5m) to let him leave.
However, a winter departure is not on the agenda. Manchester United are monitoring the player but rather with the intention of formulating an offer next summer. This will give Kees Smit time to complete a full season with his training club, perhaps with a Netherlands national team selection in view of the World Cup. In the meantime, the Red Devils could look at Joao Gomes, another interesting and financially affordable midfield target.
This article was originally published on Top Mercato.
