Liverpool have joined the race for AZ midfielder Kees Smit. The 20-year-old Dutchman has attracted attention from a whole host of Premier League clubs, with his potential price tag set at around £51m.
Representatives from several English sides were watching Smit during a Europa League match against Sunderland. Despite AZ's 1-0 defeat, the midfielder once again made a strong impression in the middle of the park.
According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool hold a slight advantage over their rivals as they have been keeping tabs on Smit longer than other suitors.
Alongside the Merseysiders, scouts from Chelsea, Tottenham, Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, and Brighton also attended the match.
Liverpool could accelerate their pursuit as soon as January. Andoni Iraola is keen on bolstering his midfield at the beginning of 2024, and the £51m asking price is within the club's financial reach.
Smit is regarded as one of the most promising young talents at the Dutch club, and following Troy Parrott's summer move to Betis, he could become AZ's next major sale.