Liverpool's midfield is one of their main areas that needs to be revamped.
Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch both failed to meet expectations last term with their inability to run one of their main problems.
And, even when they did run, whenever an opponent faced up to them, especially Gravenberch, he rarely ever beat them and was often sent to the shops.
Indeed, the Dutchman did sign a bumper new deal with the Anfield outfit during the 2025-26 season so he isn't likely to go anywhere but, Mac Allister's future still feels like it's undecided.
With all of this in mind, it's hardly surprising to see Liverpool being linked with new players almost every other day.
And now, among all the rumours, it finally feels like Richard Hughes may have stumbled across the perfect midfielder for Liverpool.
Kees Smit is a player that some Liverpool fans will have heard of and some that won't.
The Dutchman was mainly linked with an Anfield switch while Arne Slot was in charge but, since players like Sandro Tonali are being sold for £92.5 million, under the radar players such as Smit could be key to the Reds' success.
Smit is only 20 years old but his performances in the Eredivisie have been close to perfect.
He's been one of AZ Alkmaar's best players and has contributed to 15 goals while playing as a defensive midfielder.
The Dutch outfit reportedly want around £52 million to prise him away from his home country which may seem like a lot but, with the way the market is at the moment, that could be seen as a steal.
Also, the fact that Smit has confirmed that there has been plenty of interest in him means that he's clearly a good player.
And, since players like Yan Diomande, who were only signed for around €20 million last summer are now said to be worth over €100 million, it feels like some of the biggest clubs in the world are going to have to take more risks.
As every Liverpool fan knows, Slot making Gravenberch Liverpool's number six during his first season in charge was an interesting move.
The Reds had just missed out on Martin Zubimendi after dropping hints about making a move all summer.
This meant that the club would either have to go for one of their back-up options and overspend or just make-do with what they had.
And, although using Gravenberch as a defensive-midfielder was a huge risk, it worked out and his performances helped Liverpool win the Premier League title.
However, the 2025-26 season was a completely different story and, it was made clear that the Dutchman would be much more use to the Reds if he played further up the pitch.
This is why a new number six is essential for Liverpool and, since Smit spent most of his time in that position last season, he could find his way into Iraola's plans.
There's obviously a long time left before the summer transfer window slams shut but, the sooner Liverpool get their new signings in, the better.
That is, especially if they want to avoid a repeat of the 2025-26 season.
