Chelsea favourites to sign Kees Smit ahead of Man Utd

Chelsea are favourites ahead of Manchester United to sign AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smith, according to iNews.

The Blues have had an impressive Premier League campaign and they are presently fourth in the standings with 28 points on the board.

Despite this, they could bolster their options at the turn of the year, and reports claim that Smit has emerged as a potential target.

Newcastle and Man Utd are also keen on the Dutchman, but the Blues reportedly have an upper hand in the midfielder's pursuit.

AZ aim to keep their prized asset until the end of the campaign, but could be willing to do business if their asking price is met.

The Dutch outfit are reportedly eyeing €50 million for the central midfielder, who has been compared to Barcelona's Pedri.

He has a similar playing style to the Spanish sensation and is an outside candidate to make the Netherlands squad for the World Cup next summer.