Report: Liverpool face Arsenal and Real Madrid battle to land midfielder | OneFootball

Liverpool Step Up Pursuit of Kees Smit Amid Elite Transfer Battle

Credit to Fichajes for the original reporting that has ignited fresh intrigue around Liverpool’s midfield plans ahead of the summer window. The Spanish outlet states that “Real Madrid are watching closely as Arsenal and Liverpool have taken the lead in the frantic race to sign new midfield sensation Kees Smit,” a line that neatly captures how quickly this story has gathered momentum.

At 20 years old, Smit’s rise at AZ Alkmaar has been steep, and Liverpool’s interest feels both logical and timely. With Arne Slot continuing to shape the squad in his image, recruitment in central areas remains a priority. According to Fichajes, the Dutchman has “become the object of desire of the clubs with the greatest economic and sporting potential on the continent,” underlining the calibre of competition Liverpool face.

Midfield Profile Tailored for Anfield

Smit’s attributes appear well suited to Liverpool’s evolving structure. The report highlights that he combines “a privileged reading of the game with a ball handling unbefitting his young age.” Those qualities align with Slot’s demand for midfielders who can dictate tempo, progress play and manage transitions with authority.

Scouts across Europe have been captivated by his composure. Fichajes describe how “the Dutchman’s ability to set the pace of matches has seduced scouts from the Gunners and Reds alike.” For Liverpool, whose system increasingly relies on technical control as much as intensity, that capacity to orchestrate phases of possession would add balance.

There is also a strategic angle in Liverpool’s pursuit. The article notes that “Liverpool are relying on manager Arne Slot’s connection to persuade the player to choose Anfield as his next professional destination.” Familiarity with the Dutch football ecosystem could be a decisive advantage, particularly for a player weighing his first major move abroad.

Photo: IMAGO

Price Tag Reflects Rapid Rise

AZ Alkmaar are braced for a bidding contest that could escalate quickly. Fichajes report that “it is estimated that the Dutch club will not accept any proposal lower than 60 million euros to start formal talks,” with the valuation potentially climbing to 75 million if interest intensifies.

That level of investment would signal Liverpool’s conviction in Smit’s long term ceiling. The same report describes him as “the fundamental axis on which the entire AZ Alkmaar system orbits,” an endorsement of both influence and maturity beyond his years. Liverpool’s recruitment model has increasingly favoured players entering their prime development phase, making Smit’s age profile particularly attractive.

Rival Interest Raises Stakes

Arsenal remain firmly in the frame, with Fichajes stating that both Premier League contenders believe his profile “would fit surgically into their high-intensity game dynamics.” Their links within Dutch football could prove influential, especially given their ongoing ambition to reinforce midfield depth.

Real Madrid’s presence adds another layer of intrigue. While the Spanish giants are monitoring the situation, they are reportedly cautious about entering a bidding war that could inflate the fee beyond their planned limits. That hesitation may hand the English clubs a window of opportunity.

This developing saga looks set to run deep into the summer. If Liverpool are serious about securing one of Europe’s most coveted young midfielders, decisive action and persuasive planning will be required. The race is open, the valuation is rising, and the next steps from Anfield’s recruitment team could define the outcome.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The pursuit of Kees Smit feels aligned with the club’s broader evolution under Arne Slot. The idea of adding a technically refined, tactically intelligent midfielder at 20 years old fits the long term squad build. Fans have seen how transformative the right profile in midfield can be, particularly someone capable of controlling tempo while contributing defensively.

There is excitement around the reported connection between Slot and Dutch football circles. That familiarity could help Liverpool present a clear pathway for Smit’s development, something young players increasingly prioritise when choosing their next step. Anfield offers a competitive environment with genuine opportunities to become a central figure rather than a peripheral option.

At the same time, supporters will recognise the financial implications. A fee potentially rising towards 75 million euros is significant, and Liverpool’s hierarchy traditionally weigh value carefully. If the recruitment team believe Smit can anchor the midfield for years, the outlay may be justified.

Arsenal’s presence ensures this will not be straightforward, and Real Madrid’s lingering interest keeps the stakes high. Yet Liverpool’s recent transfer strategy suggests they are willing to move assertively when the right target is identified. Should Smit’s progression continue at its current trajectory, many fans would welcome the club pushing hard to bring him to Anfield.