AZ ‘deterrent’ Ajax with steep asking price for Dutch U19 sensation Kees Smit

AZ have allegedly discouraged Ajax from pursuing a transfer for the promising Kees Smit due to their hefty demands.

ESPN reports that after Ajax expressed interest in the 19-year-old Smit, AZ quoted a price of “at least €15 million,” considering the talented midfielder a key player for the upcoming season. Ajax, who indicated they were “seriously interested” in acquiring Smit and were prepared to invest “millions,” found AZ’s demands too steep.

On Monday, while competing with the Netherlands at the Under-19 European Championships, Smit was questioned about Ajax’s interest and simply stated: “My future lies with AZ.”

Smit made his debut for AZ last season during the UEFA Europa League group stage against Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahce, where he made an immediate impact with a goal and an assist in AZ’s 3-1 victory. The young standout has been impressive at the Under-19 European Championships in Romania, netting three goals in as many matches for a resurgent Netherlands team.