AZ reportedly rejected Atlético Madrid bid for Kees Smit
Atlético, Real Madrid and Barcelona are all credited with interest in the 20-year-old midfielder, although a move is far from certain.
UnconfirmedThis report is based on Dutch media speculation and has not been confirmed by the clubs or players involved.
AZ turned down an Atlético Madrid offer for Kees Smit during the winter transfer window, according to a report relayed by FCUpdate from Spanish newspaper AS. Atlético are said to remain interested in the 20-year-old, with Real Madrid and Barcelona also monitoring the midfielder.
Smit remains with AZ two weeks into the Eredivisie season despite expectations that he could secure a major move this summer. The one-cap Netherlands international acknowledged in July that he had anticipated more interest, telling ESPN: “I had perhaps expected a little more by now.”
FCUpdate reports that AZ have enlisted Portuguese agent Jorge Mendes in an effort to maximise any transfer fee. A valuation of at least €60 million has been mentioned, while the summer market remains open for another two weeks. AS also claims that Premier League clubs are showing interest, but that Smit would prefer a move to Spain. The player previously said La Liga appealed to him because he favours playing in a warmer climate.
Whether any of Spain’s leading clubs will act remains unclear. Atlético have already strengthened midfield with Morten Hjulmand, while Real Madrid reportedly consider their squad complete unless further departures occur. Barcelona are currently prioritising an attempt to sign Rodri from Manchester City, leaving Smit lower on their agenda.
Reported first by
- 'AZ wees bod Atlético op Kees Smit af, drie Spaanse grootmachten nog steeds geïnteresseerd'— FCUpdate
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