Rio Ferdinand Urges Manchester United to Target Kees Smit

Kees Smit is emerging as a name to watch in the upcoming summer transfer window. The AZ Alkmaar midfielder has been linked with Liverpool, but former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has urged his old club to consider signing the Dutchman instead.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Ferdinand highlighted Smit while discussing potential replacements for Casemiro. He said, "There’s a kid called Kees Smit who I absolutely love. He’s at Alkmaar. Not many people listening probably know him, but go and check this kid out. He’s a Dutch kid, midfielder."

Ferdinand views Smit as a player for the future rather than an immediate solution. "He wouldn’t be one I’d buy to go in and start immediately because he’s too young and inexperienced. But definitely I wouldn’t want to miss out on him because I think you need to get two or three in that area,” he added.

The 20-year-old has made a mark in the Eredivisie this season, contributing three goals and three assists in 26 appearances. His impressive 88% pass accuracy and an average of 5.1 ball recoveries per game indicate a well-rounded skill set.

While Ferdinand champions Smit for United, other voices suggest Liverpool might be a better fit. Stephen Warnock pointed out that Liverpool needs a holding midfielder who can sense danger and provide physicality. Smit's blend of mobility and passing could be valuable, especially if Wataru Endo departs this summer.

Reports also suggest that Arsenal, Liverpool, and Real Madrid are in the mix for Smit, with Liverpool's Dutch contingent potentially easing his transition. With players like Virgil van Dijk and Cody Gakpo already in the squad, Smit could find a familiar environment.

If Liverpool aims to nurture another midfielder alongside Ryan Gravenberch, Smit represents an intelligent, adaptable option worth monitoring closely.