Dutch Wonderkid Kees Smit Has Europe's Elite Scrambling for His Signature
19-year-old AZ Alkmaar midfielder drawing scouts from Premier League giants and Spanish heavyweights, while Raspadori could be heading back to Italy.
Dutch Wonderkid Kees Smit Has Europe’s Elite Scrambling for His Signature
The cream of European football are all keeping tabs on AZ Alkmaar’s teenage sensation as transfer speculation heats up across the continent.
The Dutch Pearl Everyone’s After
If you haven’t heard of Kees Smit yet, trust me, you soon will. The 19-year-old AZ Alkmaar midfielder is rapidly becoming one of the hottest properties in European football, with scouts from the absolute cream of the crop making regular trips to the AFAS Stadion.
Despite being tied down until 2028, that hasn’t stopped the big boys from sniffing around:
- Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid all have their beady eyes on him
- Premier League heavyweights Chelsea and Manchester City are also in the mix
- Scouts from these clubs have been spotted at recent AZ matches
The Dutch talent factory continues to produce absolute diamonds, and Smit looks like he could be the next big export. One to watch when the summer window opens, no doubt about it.
Raspadori Eyeing Italian Return?
Atletico Madrid’s Italian forward Giacomo Raspadori might be heading back to his homeland sooner rather than later. Roma are on the hunt for striking reinforcements in January and have initiated talks with Atleti regarding a potential move.
While discussions aren’t at an advanced stage yet, the player fits the profile that Gian Piero Gasperini is after. The word on the street is that both Raspadori and Atletico would be open to a parting of ways if a decent offer lands on the table.
Barcelona Keen on Bastoni
Inter Milan’s defensive rock Alessandro Bastoni continues to attract attention from Europe’s elite clubs. While the Italian is reportedly happy at the San Siro and Inter are reluctant to let him go, Barcelona have made their interest crystal clear.
The Catalan club have even sent representatives to Milan for meetings with Bastoni’s agent. He’s apparently right at the top of Barça’s defensive wishlist - though prising him away from the Nerazzurri won’t be a piece of cake.
Dani Rodríguez Staying in Spain
Mallorca midfielder Dani Rodríguez will be on the move this January, but he won’t be leaving Spanish shores. The Galician playmaker has plenty of admirers in La Liga, with Getafe, Rayo Vallecano and Levante all keen to secure his services.
Looks like the winter transfer window might be a right Bobby Dazzler after all!