Liverpool's Potential Target: Kees Smit Emerges as a Value Option in Midfield

Liverpool has set its sights on Kees Smit, a talented midfielder at AZ Alkmaar, following a recent scouting mission during a match with Sunderland.

According to TEAMtalk, multiple Premier League clubs, including Chelsea, Tottenham, Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace, and Brighton, were present to witness the Dutch midfielder's performance, highlighting his growing reputation.

Smit's market value hovers around £51.5 million, positioning him as a potentially strategic option for Liverpool amid rising transfer fees in the sport.

Evaluating Smit's Versatility

Smit possesses the capability to play both as a holding midfielder and as an attacking player, although he primarily occupies central midfield. His skill set resembles that of Adam Wharton, who is noted for advancing the ball through an impressive range of passing and chance creation. This versatility is increasingly coveted in modern football, where adaptability can dictate the success of a player in varying tactical setups.

Digging deeper into his statistics, they reveal a player who’s not shy about taking risks on the pitch. With a metrics profile that shows a competency in creating chances, Smit averages about 0.35 expected assists (xA) per game, placing him within the upper percentile of midfielders. However, his passing accuracy, at just over 80%, while solid, raises questions about his effectiveness in high-pressure situations, such as those that Liverpool often faces.

While Smit's passing statistics indicate a proclivity for adventurous plays aimed at chance creation, it'll be essential to evaluate his defensive contributions. Liverpool’s midfield setup, featuring aggressive players like Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai, requires a balanced approach. Smit will need to provide that defensive cover without sacrificing his attacking instincts, a balancing act that many young players find challenging.

Smit and Wharton: Comparative Analysis

Analyzing the heatmaps of both players reveals distinct playing styles. Wharton often operates deeper in his half, occasionally dropping into defensive positions, while Smit tends to assert more presence in the opponent's terrain. This difference suggests that while both are capable midfielders, they offer contrasting attributes that can complement different tactical approaches. Smit may add flair and attacking momentum, but he doesn't quite reach the attacking intensity of Szoboszlai or Gravenberch, both of whom can disrupt defenses with their offensive prowess.

Interestingly, Smit shows a greater tendency to carry the ball compared to Wharton. While both players contribute defensively, (and this is the part most people overlook) they lack elite defensive credentials. This makes Smit an intriguing, albeit risky, investment for a club like Liverpool that demands strong two-way players in central roles. If you're working in this space, it's vital to assess what he could bring from a defensive standpoint; those numbers tell a more complex story.

* Adam Wharton and Kees Smit’s stats from the 2025/26 Premier League and Eredivisie seasons (Fotmob)

There's substantial potential for development with Smit, who is just 20 years old. Under the right managerial guidance, he could evolve into a deeper-lying playmaker capable of dictating play and progressing the ball more effectively, especially if paired with a tactically astute midfielder. This aspect makes his price point of approximately half of what is being reported for Adam Wharton—around £100 million—quite compelling for Liverpool's recruitment strategy. It raises a question: will Liverpool’s scouts see enough potential in Smit to invest this hefty sum in January?

Implications and Future Outlook

The football transfer market is replete with risks and rewards. Smit's acquisition could represent both if Liverpool decides to go all in. A highly touted talent with a growing list of admirers, his development trajectory is one to monitor. If Liverpool gets it right, they could secure a player who not only adds immediate value but also blossoms into a formidable midfielder in the long run. However, the pressure will be on Smit to adapt quickly and contribute from the outset, given the heightened expectations that come with playing in the Premier League.

The competition for Smit’s signature poses challenges as well; top clubs are typically motivated and willing to meet rising transfer fees. If his current form continues, more clubs will enter the fray, complicating Liverpool’s negotiating position. As teams strategize to bolster their rosters in January, Smit stands at a crossroads that could define his career trajectory. The upcoming months will be telling.