Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United have received a significant boost in their pursuit of Barcelona midfield target Kees Smit.

Kees Smit’s sensational rise at AZ Alkmaar hasn’t gone unnoticed, as multiple top clubs are ready to battle it out for his signature. Despite the competition, a report from Football Insider suggests Newcastle United are frontrunners to win the race.

The Dutch midfielder is attracted by the idea of joining the Tyneside club. While Barcelona are also in the mix and could make things difficult for the English club, they have certainly received a significant boost.

Smit has come up the ranks at AZ Alkmaar and has been a part of their first team since the summer of 2024. He has taken his game to the next level over the last 18 months. He has been involved in 50 matches and has even contributed towards 10 goals.

While the teenager prefers playing as a central midfielder, he is capable enough to take up any role in the centre of the park and can even chip in on the flanks when needed. He has shown maturity beyond his years. His exceptional abilities and massive potential are major reasons why the biggest clubs in the world are after his signature.

Newcastle United, who haven’t been at their best this season, are looking to add more quality to their squad, and they have been linked with Smit for weeks. The Magpies are constantly looking for young stars with massive potential as they look to build for the future.

Smit is seen as an ideal fit for their project, and the player also seems keen on a move to Tyneside. The project is of his interest and he is confident about having a prominent role in the team.

Keith Wyness on Smit’s next club

While speaking about Smit’s future on the Inside Track podcast, Keith Wyness said, “Yeah, look, there is big interest in him. I spoke to my Dutch contact this week, who said that Newcastle is the preferred option for the player.

“I think that makes sense. It would be a great place for him to go. He is a great young talent. There is interest from the big clubs in Europe, certainly. But I think the Barcelonas etc., may come at the next stage of his career if he were to kick on.

“Newcastle is the perfect fit, and I’m told that there is interest from the player’s side about making that move. So let’s see where that one goes.”

Barcelona could cause problems for Newcastle

The teenager is aware of Newcastle’s interest in him, and he seems ready to make the switch to the Tyneside club. However, the Magpies could still face stiff competition from Barcelona, who have also been linked with the Alkmaar sensation.

Hansi Flick wants more quality in midfield as he looks to strengthen his rotation, and they consider Smit an ideal fit for their project. The 19-year-old is valued at around £20 million, which means the finances won’t be a problem for either club.