Newcastle United are hoping to sign Kees Smit from AZ Alkmaar in January, but must offer the teenager certain guarantees.
Ahead of the January transfer window, it has been reported that Newcastle United have identified two priority positions. They want to strengthen at full-back, while they are also eyeing up reinforcements in the middle of the park.
That search has taken them to the Netherlands, with Newcastle United interested in Kees Smit.
The 19-year-old is attracting a huge amount of attention ahead of January, but Newcastle believe they can sign Smit.
They will hope that belief is not misplaced, but that will largely depend on what they offer the teenage midfielder.
Which position should Newcastle United look to strengthen in January?
Newcastle United must offer Kees Smit regular minutes
Despite top clubs from all over Europe eyeing a deal for Kees Smit, it is Newcastle United who are trying to force their way to the front of the queue.
According to the Telegraph, Newcastle United have received encouragement that the Dutchman would be interested in a move to St James’ Park.
However, the report adds that Smit to Newcastle United will only happen if the club can guarantee he will receive regular first-team minutes.
That will be up to Eddie Howe, whose midfield three of Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton were back to their best against Manchester City last weekend.
Joelinton improved massively amid an inconsistent season, but it is his place that would be up for grabs should Smit arrive on Tyneside.
Kees Smit could be Ross Wilson’s first major signing at Newcastle United
The January transfer window is set to be Newcastle United’s first with Ross Wilson overseeing proceedings as sporting director.
The one player who Newcastle United should sign in January is…
There is pressure on him to deliver, particularly after Paul Mitchell’s challenging 12 months as part of the Toon hierarchy.
Wilson is changing Newcastle’s transfer strategy, with the club planning to take more calculated risks on young talents from further afield.
That includes a player like Smit, who could become Wilson’s first major signing at St James’ Park. Given Smit’s potential, it would certainly be a statement of intent from the Magpies’ new sporting director.
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