Liverpool target AZ’s Kees Smit “the next Pedri” as Arne Slot approves January move

Liverpool are reportedly preparing a January offer for 19-year-old AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, whom scouts across Europe have dubbed “the next Pedri”. Manager Arne Slot, who previously coached the Dutch prodigy during his AZ tenure, has approved the move as part of Liverpool’s long-term midfield rebuild.

According to TeamTalk and Football365, Liverpool’s recruitment team have closely tracked Smit since the start of the Eredivisie season. The youngster has already recorded 2 goals and 2 assists in 11 league appearances, impressing with his composure, vision and positional intelligence. Slot reportedly sees Smit as an ideal fit for his high-tempo possession style.

AZ Alkmaar are expected to demand more than €25 million — a figure that would surpass the club’s previous transfer record — while Real Madrid, Barcelona and Newcastle United are also monitoring the player’s situation.

For the football-business community, the potential transfer underscores Liverpool’s renewed focus on European youth talent and highlights the growing financial escalation around creative midfielders. Betting and media markets tied to January’s Premier League window are already reflecting the speculation surrounding Smit’s next destination.