Manchester United’s midfield could look dramatically different by next summer if Ruben Amorim remains in charge long enough to oversee the club’s rebuild.
United continue to cast a wide net in search of both ready-made starters and elite young prospects — a dual-track strategy that would see the club sign an established Premier League midfielder and a high-ceiling wonderkid. And one target stands out above the rest.
At just 17, Dutch prodigy Kees Smit has already attracted Europe’s biggest clubs, and United have now learned the enormous fee it will take to bring him to Old Trafford.
Kees Smit on United’s shortlist as AZ name their price
Smit, widely regarded as one of the best young midfielders in Europe, has sparked interest from Manchester United, Real Madrid and Barcelona. According to The Athletic, AZ Alkmaar have confirmed that all three giants are tracking the teenager — but they have no intention of selling him in January. With no release clause in his contract, AZ are expected to demand up to £53 million for a 2026 move.
United have reportedly already initiated contact, with head of recruitment Christopher Vivell leading the push. A fierce battle appears likely, with multiple clubs preparing bids for one of the brightest midfield talents in the game.
Why Smit fits perfectly in Ruben Amorim’s system
Though not the Premier League-proven midfielder United also want, Smit is a highly polished possession-first talent. Compared to Luka Modrić and Frenkie de Jong, he excels at dictating tempo, sustaining long periods of control and progressing play — qualities United will badly need once Bruno Fernandes departs.
Smit’s technical profile aligns with Amorim’s desire for a calmer, more controlled midfield. While he is not a natural defensive specialist, he has the intelligence and mobility to contribute without the ball when required. More importantly, he has the creativity and composure United have lacked in deep and central areas.
Alongside players like Elliot Anderson or Adam Wharton, Smit could help reshape United’s entire midfield identity. But with Europe’s elite all circling, United face a major challenge in winning the race for one of football’s most coveted young stars.
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