Liverpool eye AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit

Liverpool are reported to be targeting AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, the 20‑year‑old Dutch playmaker who logged 46 appearances, five goals and ten assists last season. With his contract running until the summer of 2028, the Reds could move for him this summer.

The claim originated from The Telegraph’s Luke Edwards in a post on X, where he noted Liverpool’s interest. The report adds that the Reds are already in the mix to secure the youngster before the transfer window closes.

Smit featured in 46 matches for AZ Alkmaar across all competitions last campaign, contributing five goals and ten assists. His output places him among the Eredivisie’s most promising young playmakers.

Primarily a box‑to‑box midfielder, Smit can also operate as a defensive midfielder or in a number‑ten role. He is praised for solid tackling, timely challenges, tidy passing and the ability to strike the ball with power from distance.

His contract with AZ Alkmaar is set to expire in the summer of 2028, which could complicate a low‑cost acquisition later this year. The length of the deal means Liverpool may need to act promptly if they wish to avoid a higher fee.

Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola would gain additional quality and depth in midfield should Smit join. The Merseyside club sees the Dutch talent as a potential regular first‑team option in the future.

At 20, Smit is described as having the potential to become a world‑class player in his position. Nevertheless, only time will tell if he can adapt smoothly to the pace of the Premier League.

A photo by Alex Bierens de Haan shows Smit watching the first half of the Eurojackpot KNVB Beker final between AZ Alkmaar and NEC Nijmegen at De Kuip in Rotterdam on April 19, 2026.