Liverpool transfer target reveals exactly where he wants to move - 'I'd like to go'

Liverpool have been linked with a host of players heading into the summer but it appears that AZ Alkmaar star Kees Smit will not be on the way to Anfield any time soon

Dutch star Kees Smit has admitted that he is eyeing a move to Spain in the future despite interest from Liverpool. The Reds have been linked with a move for the AZ Alkmaar midfielder for some time.

And it looked like Liverpool had stolen a march on their rivals, with reports suggesting that the reigning Premier League champions were leading the race for his services. While they are still in contention, it appears that Smit has ambitions of playing elsewhere, specifically in La Liga.

Speaking to SuperGaande via Mundo Deportivo, the 20-year-old said: “I really enjoyed watching Barça. I grew up watching Iniesta and Messi, who I consider two of my role models.”

Asked if there was one league he would like to play in, Smit added: “La Liga. Playing there would be amazing. I love the sun, I’m tired of playing in the cold and rain, so I’d like to go play in Spain.

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“I watch all Barcelona matches. It’s simply my favorite club. I love watching Pedri and Frenkie de Jong.”

While a move to Spain and Barcelona could well be on the agenda in the future, Smit has spoken out on the chances of him leaving AZ and claims it is something he has not yet thought about.

He said: “I never considered leaving AZ. My dream was to play here my whole life. Ideally, it would be a step to another Dutch team, but I don’t think that’s going to happen.”

Smit, 20, is a product of the AZ academy, having progressed through the club’s youth system to make 69 appearances for the first team. The vast majority of those outings have come this season, with Smit having made 38 appearances in all competitions and scored four goals.

Should Smit move to Liverpool, he would be joining a host of compatriots at Anfield including boss Arne Slot, as well as Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, Jeremie Frimpong and Cody Gakpo.

Liverpool have endured a disappointing season this term and see their spot in the Champions League under real threat. The Reds sit fifth in the table and two points behind Chelsea with eight games of the season to be played.

They are next back in action on Wednesday evening as they take on Turkish side Galatasaray in their Champions League last-16 clash ahead of Saturday’s clash with Brighton.