Tottenham Hotspur are now showing real interest in signing a "relentless" new midfielder who has "striker-like finishing", with a number of Europe's top clubs keen.
Spurs looking to strengthen in midfield
Tottenham have made a patchy start to life under Thomas Frank, most recently drawing 0-0 away at AS Monaco in the Champions League, and they could have lost if not for the performance of Guglielmo Vicario, who received a SofaScore match rating of 10 for his efforts.
The Lilywhites recorded an xG of just 0.88, as a result of only creating one big chance throughout the match, with Lucas Bergvall failing to make an impact, being substituted on the hour mark after failing to complete a single dribble or get a shot away.
Given that Rodrigo Bentancur also has just one goal and no assists to his name in all competitions this term, it wouldn't be surprising if Frank were to try and bring in a new creative spark, and a new midfielder has now emerged as a target.
That is according to a report from The Boot Room, which states Tottenham are now showing real interest in signing AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, having sent scouts to watch him in action for the Eredivisie side last weekend.
At the end of August, it was revealed the Dutch club are looking to hold out for up to €30m (£26m) for Smit, but the price tag could feasibly be driven up amid widespread interest, with the likes of Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Chelsea also keen.
Transfer expert Graeme Bailey adds: "Talking to scouts in Europe, there are not many more names that create as much excitement as Smit.
"Many clubs believe Smit is the real deal and from what I am being told there is a very good chance he moves next year."
"Relentess" Smit could be real attacking threat for Spurs
Scout Ben Mattinson has waxed lyrical about the threat the Dutchman poses going forward, saying: "For a midfielder, Kees Smit has striker-like finishing in the box. The quality and consistency of his finishing is top drawer. He attacks the box throughout games and gets into some dangerous areas to score from midfield."
Mattinson has also praised the 19-year-old for his engine and ability in possession of the ball, describing him as "relentless" earlier this year.
Despite still being a teenager, the Alkmaar maestro has already established himself as a regular starter for the Dutch club, chipping in with one goal and two assists in the Eredivisie so far this season.
As such, Smit could be a fantastic long-term addition to Frank's squad, but it would be a gamble, given that he is yet to prove himself in one of Europe's major leagues.