Manchester United continue to be linked with Dutch midfielder Kees Smit as a potential target for 2026.
It is no secret that Manchester United will overhaul their midfield options in 2026, the question is who is at the top of Ineos’ shopping list.
Fabrizio Romano insists that Carlos Baleba is still a top target despite his struggles at Brighton, while Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton are other top targets from within the Premier League.
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But United have also been linked to several targets across Europe, including highly-rated Dutch youngster Kees Smit, who has been attracting interest with his performances in Eredivisie.
Smit has been compared to Frenkie de Jong because of his technical style of play and sharp passing. United failed to bring De Jong to Old Trafford, but Ineos might land the next best thing.
Man United learn Kees Smit price tag
According to reports, United recruitment chief Christopher Vivell made contact for Smit last month to explore his availability.
CaughtOffside are reporting that AZ Alkmaar are under no pressure to sell the 19-year-old star, but have accepted that he will move on eventually.
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In terms of a price tag, the report claims AZ have already rejected offers for Smit that could have risen to £52 million.
Chelsea and Real Madrid are named as two other clubs showing interest in Smit’s signature, meaning United could face fierce competition for his signature.
If United intend to win the transfer race, Ineos have now learned that a fee of over £50 million will be required to get the deal done.
Man United have stung Real Madrid before
For most clubs, competing with Real Madrid for a transfer target usually ends up with only one result – the player holding up a white shirt in the Bernabeu.
But United can match Madrid’s global attraction, and the Red Devils proved it by luring Leny Yoro to Old Trafford in 2024.
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Yoro completed a U-turn to join United, leaving Madrid stunned at the young defender’s decision. But it is not one he will regret considering his impressive progress at Old Trafford so far.
If United are all-in on Smit, then Ineos know what it will take to get a deal done, but it looks increasingly unlikely to be done in January.
from United In Focus https://ift.tt/P0Un8Ow