3 hours ago
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Crystal Palace are showing interest in highly rated AZ Alkmaar prospect Kees Smit.
The 19-year old is emerging as one of the brightest midfield talents produced by the Netherlands in recent years with comparisons already being drawn with Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong and Belgium and Napoli maestro Kevin de Bruyne.
Smit shot to prominence in 2023 when he scored from 50 yards against Barcelona in the UEFA Youth League and last summer, as Netherlands won the European U19 Championships, he stole the show being awarded most valuable player and finished joint top goalscorer.
Kees Smit has been turning heads at just 19 years old with his displays for AZ Alkmaar
The starlet is admired by a string of European giants and could be available for £20million
Real Madrid, Barcelona, Chelsea and Manchester United have all sent scouts to watch Smit but Palace hope to make their own pitch to the teenager and prove they can provide a better career pathway.
Ambitious Palace are expecting offers for midfielder Adam Wharton next summer and are working to see who could bolster their squad before then. Smit is strong in possession and excellent passer of the ball but can also add goals.
It is understood Alkmaar would want around £20million for Smit who has made 12 appearances already this season in the league and Europa Conference League.
