Fabrizio Romano: Liverpool will have to pay more than €45m to sign midfielder | OneFootball

Liverpool Transfer News: Kees Smit Chase Set for Fierce Summer Market

Liverpool’s recruitment team appear to be tracking another high-upside midfield option, with fresh reporting credited to Fabrizio Romano highlighting the growing competition for AZ Alkmaar talent Kees Smit. The Italian journalist’s latest update points to significant interest across Europe, setting the stage for a demanding transfer window.

Romano Update Signals Intensifying Interest

Romano has underlined the scale of attention surrounding the Dutch youngster, with elite clubs circling ahead of the summer. He said:

“The name I keep bringing to the table: Kees Smit, the AZ Alkmaar midfielder,” the transfer insider reported on his eponymous YouTube channel.

“[His agent] Jorge Mendes is in control of the situation. There is Real Madrid interest, there are Premier League top clubs interested, several top clubs. So, it’s going to be a big battle between Spanish and Premier League clubs.

“For Kees Smit and AZ Alkmaar, it’s going to be a huge summer. It’s not going to be easy to sign him. Something like €40m-45m [£34.8m-39.2m] is not enough, it’s not enough money.

“Get ready for Kees Smit, because he’s going to be a big part of conversations.”

Those comments, credited to Fabrizio Romano for the original update, align with separate claims that AZ Alkmaar value the 20-year-old at around £52m. With Real Madrid, Arsenal, Manchester United and leading Premier League sides all attentive, any move would demand decisive action.

Liverpool’s Longstanding Admiration for Smit

Although Liverpool were not directly named in the most recent video, prior reports suggest the Merseyside club are prepared to enter the race. That fits a broader strategy of targeting technically strong midfielders who can operate across multiple roles. Smit’s “explosive” profile in the Eredivisie has drawn admiration for his progressive carrying, work rate and attacking intent.

The involvement of Jorge Mendes adds another layer to proceedings. When Mendes controls negotiations, timelines can accelerate quickly once formal bids arrive. Liverpool’s recruitment model tends to favour early positioning in such markets, especially when a bidding environment is expected to inflate valuations.

Mac Allister Future Adds Strategic Context

Discussion around Smit inevitably connects to Alexis Mac Allister’s situation. The Argentina international was central to Liverpool’s recent title push and remains under contract until 2028. Earlier expectations would have placed him firmly beyond any sale conversation.

This season has brought a shift in narrative, with inconsistent form coinciding with reported admiration from Real Madrid. From a purely strategic viewpoint, the upcoming summer could represent peak value should Liverpool ever consider offers. That scenario remains speculative, with an extension still a plausible outcome.

Even so, elite clubs often plan succession pathways well in advance. Monitoring Smit’s development does not automatically signal an exit for Mac Allister, yet it demonstrates prudent squad planning amid rising competition for top midfield talent.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this update sparks both intrigue and caution. Kees Smit sounds like the archetype of midfielder the club have targeted in recent windows, dynamic, technically secure and capable of adding thrust between the lines. If the scouting department rate him highly, it would make sense to position early before the price climbs even further.

At the same time, any link framed as a potential heir to Alexis Mac Allister will raise eyebrows on Merseyside. Mac Allister’s quality and leadership remain clear, even through a dip in form. Under Arne Slot, there is every chance he rediscovers the consistency that made him integral to Liverpool’s title charge. Selling a World Cup winner still in his prime would require a compelling financial and sporting argument.

What feels more realistic is Liverpool exploring depth and future proofing. With multiple competitions and a physically demanding calendar, adding another high ceiling midfielder could strengthen rotation and maintain intensity levels across the season. If Real Madrid and other heavyweights are genuinely involved, any pursuit would test Liverpool’s resolve in negotiations.

Supporters will trust that recruitment decisions are rooted in long term planning. Should Smit arrive, the expectation would be gradual integration alongside established stars, ensuring the midfield remains one of the strongest units in the league.