AZ Alkmaar's title celebrations will take the team on a trip to Barcelona this week. For Kees Smit, it may feel like more than just a trip for pleasure.
When questioned about his future after an impressive performance in AZ's 5-1 Dutch Cup final win over NEC Nijmegen this week, the 20-year-old Dutch midfielder made no attempt to hide his intentions. "I am going on vacation to Barcelona and if Barca ask me to negotiate I will like to. Of course I have time for that. I follow all of Barca's games, they are my favourite team."
That is a clear indication of what the young man wants to do next and is far from a subtle hint.
Smit has had 5 goals and 10 assists in 44 games this season and has also earned himself his first caps for the Netherlands under Ronald Koeman.
When questioned about him, the former Barca manager and legend, Ronald Koeman was clear; "He is a player for Barca, he can be a mix between Frenkie de Jong and Pedri. If you're a mix of the two, you're very good." Such a strong endorsement from Koeman carries weight.
The issue is the price. Discussions suggesting a price of £50-80m are being held, but AZ has the upper hand with his contract only expiring in 2029. It is not just Barca monitoring the youngster, Real Madrid, PSG and Manchester United have all reportedly been in contact with his agents.
Former Netherlands star Rafael van der Vaart also urged Madrid to sign the young Dutchman while Chelsea and United have scouts observing the 20-year-old.
The issue is that Barcelona simply do not have room in their squad right now. Frenkie de Jong’s future is uncertain but he has developed into an important player for Hansi Flick. Pedri is at the peak of his career and Barcelona desperately require a centre-back and a world class striker at the end of the season, making a £50m midfielder an unlikely addition.
The 20-year-old Dutch midfielder has clearly declared his admiration for the club, and he fits the Barcelona system precisely. This cannot be disregarded by Deco.
The vacation begins now and it will remain to be seen if the conversations do.
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