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Arsenal interested in signing AZ Alkmaar’s Kees Smit

By on April 11, 2026

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, as per Caught Offside.

After coming through the Dutch side’s youth system, the 20-year-old made his first team debut a couple of years ago before establishing himself as a key starter this campaign.

In 42 appearances across all competitions, the youngster has netted four goals and registered seven assists this season. Moreover, he has been helping his side to push for a European place finish in the Eredivisie.

Smit’s recent eye-catching performances were rewarded by Ronald Koeman with a call-up to the Netherlands national team during the March international break.

Now, Caught Offside claim that the Dutchman’s recent impressive displays haven’t gone unnoticed as he has started attracting a lot of attention ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.

Arsenal want to reinforce the midfield department with a technically gifted player and have identified Smit as a serious option. They have been monitoring his development closely before making a potential summer swoop.

Although Smit still has a contract until 2028 at AFAS Stadium, AZ Alkmaar might be forced to sell him this summer amid growing interest in him, and are prepared to accept a fee of at least £39m.

Smit to Arsenal

However, the report state that Arsenal will have to overcome fierce competition to finalise the operation as Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Newcastle United, Barcelona, and Real Madrid are all plotting a swoop as well.

Smit is a box-to-box midfielder by trait but is also comfortable providing cover in the deep-lying playmaker position if needed. Moreover, he can play in the CAM role. He is comfortable with possession, can play line-breaking passes, and has an eye for long-range passing.

Arsenal currently have Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi, and Christian Norgaard as options to deploy in the midfield department. However, the Dane has struggled to find regular game time this season.

So, it appears the North London club have started exploring options to replace the 32-year-old. Smit is a highly talented young player and possesses the potential to reach the top.

Therefore, he would be a great coup for Arsenal should they eventually manage to lure him to the Emirates Stadium this summer.