Liverpool’s next midfielder? Teenage phenomenon could be a superstar | OneFootball

Liverpool have their eyes on a teenager midfielder who could become a superstar. The Reds' next midfielder, then?

Liverpool will aim to boost their midfield in 2026, having steered clear of it in their 2025 rebuild. Richard Hughes oversaw a massive summer spend that focused on the defence, as well as the middle of the Reds' attack.

Now, part of that plan fell to pieces when Marc Guehi wasn't allowed to leave Crystal Palace at the transfer deadline. It's something they'll absolutely revisit once the transfer window reopens - but that's out of necessity.

The 2026 plan was always to focus on midfielders and wingers, though. Liverpool didn't touch either area ahead of this season outside of letting players leave without replacements.

So as the Reds seek their next great midfielders, they're looking at all options. Importantly, they're looking at options who could kick on to become superstars, rather than players who are already pushing the £100m mark.

And they might have found an ideal one.

Kees Smit to Liverpool?

Soccer News in the Netherlands claims Liverpool are now giving serious consideration to Kees Smit. The 19-year-old is becoming a real star for AZ Alkmaar.

But he also caught the eye for the Dutch Under 19s this summer. Smit was the player of the tournament and the top scorer as the Netherlands won the U19 Euros. Not bad for a player usually performing in midfield.

Smit scored in every game except the final in a magnificent campaign. But limiting his efforts to goals would be a disservice. And not only because those kinds of goal scoring heroics aren't exactly easy to repeat.

Fortunately, Smit's all-around game is what really catches the eye. He's a midfielder who completes around five progressive passes per 90 minutes, while also breaking through the lines with his ball-carrying - something he does around twice per 90.

Smit also wins tackles, recovers the ball, and importantly, is happy to receive progressive passes. He's essentially what Liverpool like to have in midfield under Arne Slot.

A player who can receive passes in the midfield third, break through the lines, and get involved both defensive and offensively. Anyone winning several tackles and also helping to create over four shots per 90 minutes is a talented midfielder.

Liverpool, then, will see a world of potential in Smit. It feels like he's got the talent to become any kind of midfielder, while he's already shown an ability to be a decisive force for a trophy.

The perfect midfield project, then? A do-it-all teenager with all the growth potential in the world.