Newcastle monitoring Kees Smit as AZ chief says “things will pick up” after summer

Kees Smit’s emergence at AZ Alkmaar continues to draw attention from Europe’s elite, with Newcastle United among the clubs linked to the 19-year-old midfielder. The Dutch U21 international has enjoyed a breakout year in the Eredivisie, earning widespread praise for his composure, passing range and positional intelligence. And while reports have tied him to Real Madrid, Liverpool, Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund, AZ’s hierarchy insist the market around their young talents remains “quiet” — for now.

Soccer News revealed this weekend that both Newcastle and Real Madrid have been tracking Smit, though neither has lodged a formal enquiry. Smit has already clocked 1,743 minutes this season across 22 matches, contributing two goals and four assists. For a teenager only promoted to the senior side in 2024, the progression has been rapid, and scouts in England and Spain have taken clear notice.

AZ general manager Merijn Zeeman discussed Smit — alongside teammates Troy Parrott, Sven Mijnans and Mexx Meerdink — during an appearance on ESPN NL’s Goedemorgen Eredivisie. The programme’s host, Hans Kraay Jr, questioned the club official directly on whether agents or representatives from Europe’s top teams had already initiated conversations.

Zeeman’s response was calm, measured and revealing.

Newcastle United’s recruitment team have turned their attention toward midfield reinforcement, not because of any outgoing transfer concerns, but because they want greater depth, creativity and variation in Eddie Howe’s engine room. With Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimarães settled as one of the club’s core pillars, the focus has shifted toward adding a young midfielder who can complement their existing profiles rather than replace them.

Kees Smit fits that vision extremely well. He is technically secure under pressure, comfortable receiving the ball in tight areas and intelligent in how he progresses possession from deep. His ability to operate as either a controlling No.6 or a more dynamic No.8 gives Newcastle tactical flexibility, while his timing in both defensive actions and forward carries has caught the eye of scouts in England.

Dutch reports have noted that Premier League clubs appreciate Smit’s composure in transition and his maturity for his age. For Newcastle, who want to expand their midfield options and introduce more inventive passing into their build-up, the teenager aligns perfectly with the long-term stylistic direction of the club.

Having followed the Eredivisie talent pipeline closely over recent seasons, this pattern is familiar. Top clubs scout aggressively during a player’s first breakout season, gathering information rather than submitting early bids. In our view, the absence of formal interest today is not an indication of a lack of intent — it is simply the timing strategy modern recruitment departments prefer.

Although some fans may interpret Zeeman’s comments as a firm denial, it’s worth questioning how AZ typically conduct business. The club rarely confirms interest before the summer window, and agents often wait until May before engaging in structured talks. The fact that Newcastle, Madrid and Liverpool have been consistently linked suggests real scouting activity behind the scenes.

From my own experience covering Dutch prospects, the “second full season” is when the market ignites. If Smit maintains his form, his data profile — particularly his ball progression metrics — will place him firmly among Europe’s most sought-after young midfielders.

Smit is expected to remain at AZ until at least the end of the season. If his performances hold steady, a multi-club battle could emerge by June, with Newcastle among those monitoring the situation closely.

👉 Would Smit be a smart long-term signing for Newcastle — or should he stay in the Eredivisie another year?