“I have to be careful with what I say” - Ronald Koeman makes big claim about Barcelona target being similar to Pedri

The Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has made a massive claim regarding Barcelona target Kees Smit. The 19-year-old AZ Alkmaar midfielder has been earning rave reviews for his exploits and has been linked with a host of clubs.

Barca are reportedly among the admirers of the technically gifted Netherlands U21 international. The Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman, who previously managed the Catalan giants, has compared the youngster to Pedri.

Pedri came through the Blaugrana's youth ranks and got his first team breakthrough when Koeman was in charge of the Catalan club. Koeman has claimed that Smit has plenty in common with Pedri in terms of style of play. The Netherlands manager said, via Barca Blaugranes:

“I have to be careful with what I say, but I coached Pedri at Barcelona and I see things from him in Kees Smit. The turns, the use of both feet, the vision of the game... that’s what I saw in Pedri back then."

Koeman added:

“What he is showing at such a young age is impressive. If he achieves half of what Pedri has achieved in his career, everyone in Holland will be happy.”

Pedri is regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world and is a key player for Barcelona. The 22-year-old has already made 215 appearances for the Catalan giants and has earned 38 caps for Spain.

Kees Smit, on the other hand, is just 19 and has made 50 appearances for his boyhood club AZ. He has been capped at youth level for the Netherlands and looks on course to become a full international soon.

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Barcelona to battle Real Madrid for midfielder who plays in second tier of Germany: Reports

Barcelona are reportedly ready to head-to-head against arch rivals Real Madrid for the signature of German sensation Kennet Eichhorn. The 16-year-old has attracted interest from some of the top clubs in Europe following his exploits at Hertha BSC.

As reported by Sky Sports, the young midfielder has impressed for Hertha in 2. Bundesliga this season. Real Madrid and Barcelona are reportedly both chasing the young defensive midfielder's signature.

Eichhorn has made ten appearances across competitions for Hertha BSC this season. The defensive midfielder, blessed with a frame of 6'1", has impressed with his all-round game in the middle of the park.

As per reports, Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig, Borussia Dortmund, Liverpool and Arsenal are all tracking the youngster's progress. Hertha BSC are reportedly looking to renew his deal but face the risk of losing him because of his low release clause of around €10-12 million.

Edited by Snehanjan Banerjee