Crystal Palace ‘showing interest’ in signing Man United-linked midfielder – Report

Crystal Palace are attempting to steal a march on Europe’s elite with their pursuit of 19-year-old AZ Alkmaar sensation Kees Smit, according to the Daily Mail. The Dutch midfielder has already been compared to Frenkie de Jong and Kevin de Bruyne thanks to his vision, range of passing and ability to dictate play in tight areas.

Rising Star From Alkmaar

“Kees Smit has been turning heads at just 19 years old with his displays for AZ Alkmaar,” reported the Daily Mail, highlighting the remarkable rise of a player who exploded onto the scene by scoring from 50 yards against Barcelona in the UEFA Youth League. His performances at the European U19 Championships last summer only added to the hype as “he stole the show being awarded most valuable player and finished joint top goalscorer.”

That level of pedigree has not gone unnoticed. “Real Madrid, Barcelona, Chelsea and Manchester United have all sent scouts to watch Smit,” confirming just how coveted the youngster has become. Yet Palace believe they can offer something different – game time, responsibility and a clear path to first-team football.

Palace’s Midfield Planning

With Adam Wharton expected to attract major bids next summer, Palace are already preparing for life beyond him. Smit, described as “strong in possession and excellent passer of the ball but can also add goals,” fits the club’s recruitment model perfectly.

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£20 Million Gamble Or Bargain In Waiting?

AZ Alkmaar reportedly value Smit at around £20million after he amassed 12 senior appearances this season across league and Europa Conference League competition. That figure, in today’s market, could prove either a bold swing or the deal of the decade if Smit continues his ascension.

One Palace insider was quoted as saying, “You do not often get chances to sign players with this kind of ceiling before the giants strike, so it is about timing and conviction.”

Our View – EPL Index

From a Crystal Palace fan’s perspective, this is exactly the kind of headline that stirs excitement. For too long Palace have watched from the sidelines as bigger clubs snapped up Europe’s brightest teenagers, so seeing the club push into that conversation is refreshing. Yes, £20million is a substantial outlay, but if Manchester United and Real Madrid are circling then clearly the talent is real.

What makes this pursuit even more intriguing is the strategy behind it. Rather than waiting for Wharton to depart and scrambling for a replacement, Palace appear proactive and ambitious. That is the mentality shift supporters have been craving. Bringing in a player compared to De Bruyne is not just a transfer, it is a statement.

Of course, securing him will not be straightforward. Competing with Europe’s heavyweights will require more than money, it will demand a persuasive sporting project. Palace must sell Smit on the idea that Selhurst Park can be a launchpad rather than a detour. Regular Premier League football, a supportive fanbase and a club eager to grow may be enough to sway him.