The website "CaughtOffside" revealed that Chelsea was the first club to make a move in the race to sign the young Dutch midfielder Kees Smit, having opened communication channels with the player's representatives in preparation for a possible transfer during the upcoming winter transfer window.

The website mentioned that the 19-year-old player is considered one of the most promising emerging talents in Europe, following an impressive season in the Dutch league. He caught attention with his ability to control the pace of the game, leading some to compare him to players like Frenkie de Jong and Martin Ødegaard.

According to the same source, Chelsea's management has already begun preliminary discussions with the player's representatives as part of the club's efforts to continue building a young and dynamic team. However, the expected financial value of the deal, estimated at around £25 million, raises some reservations within the club due to adherence to profit and sustainability rules, which may lead them to postpone any official offer until the summer.

The report indicated that Chelsea's head coach, Enzo Maresca, is an admirer of the player's versatility and tactical abilities, and believes he could be a strong addition to the midfield alongside Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo.

In contrast, the source clarified that Newcastle United is preparing to take more serious action, as they are considering submitting an official offer during the winter transfer window, given the club's belief in the player's ability to strengthen manager Eddie Howe's squad both domestically and in European competitions.

The report added that the player is open to the idea of playing in the English Premier League, while his current club remains willing to listen to suitable offers, preferring to postpone his sale until the summer if their financial demands are not met in January.