Liverpool move a step closer to signing 'outstanding' star as major update emerges | OneFootball

Kees Smit admits that he wants to play in La Liga

Kees Smit is one of the most sought-after youngsters in the world.

The Dutchman has been in fine form for AZ Alkmaar this term as he's already contributed to 10 goals across all competitions.

He can play anywhere in the middle of midfield with clubs such as Liverpool and Real Madrid vying for his transfer.

A fee worth around £50 million is what would be required to prise him away from AZ, but, it seems like the 20-year-old has already decided where his future is headed.

In a recent interview with Dutch media outlet Supergaande, Smit was asked where he sees himself playing when he eventually chooses to leave AZ.

"La Liga. Playing there would be great," he said.

"I love the sun, I'm tired of playing in so much cold and rain, so I'd like to go and play in Spain."

Liverpool may move closer to signing Adam Wharton now that Kees Smit is off the table

Although Smit perfectly aligns with the transfer values that Liverpool have had over the last couple of years, it's clear that he has his heart set on Real Madrid.

He's a very talented midfielder but, since he's never played outside of the Eredivisie, it feels like spending around £50 million on the Dutchman would be a massive risk.

Indeed, the Reds did sign Giovanni Leoni and Milos Kerkez in the summer who are a similar age to Smit but, since both of those players have had some experience in Europe's top five leagues, there was much less of a risk.

However, now that he's off the table, Slot and Hughes could focus their attention on other targets such as Adam Wharton.

The Englishman has long been linked with an Anfield switch and, the fact that he's been dubbed an "outstanding" player, proves how good he actually is.

Wharton may not be as much of a versatile midfielder as Smit is but, his endless amounts of Premier League experience and the fact that he's only cost Liverpool around £20 million more are all massive green flags.

He'd be able to easily fit into Slot's system and would clearly improve their ranks massively.

Indeed, it won't be easy prising the 22-year-old away from Selhurst Park but, if Slot and Hughes manage to do it, it could be one of their best signings ever.

So, although it's sad that Liverpool are going to miss out on Smit, the fact that a deal for Wharton could be bumped up their priority list is a huge win.