At a glance
Risk: Low
Verdict: Buy
Information checked:
Introduction
Pre-publication check: Recheck injuries and first-choice forward roles after the final pre-season matches.
The forward market is dominated by Haaland, but the gap beneath him creates several different squad structures. Isak costs £6.5m less, Igor Thiago brings proven goal threat at £8.0m and a group around £7.0m-£7.5m can release money for midfield.
The key is to compare total squad value, not just one striker against another.
1. Erling Haaland - £15.5m
The highest-scoring player of 2025/26 remains the safest captaincy route.
His early fixtures and history of fast starts justify the price for managers seeking a controlled opening.
Rating: 9.5/10. Minutes: 9/10. Fixtures: 9/10. Risk: low. Verdict: Buy.
2. Alexander Isak - £9.0m
Isak previously produced 211 points in his final Newcastle season, showing the ceiling when fully fit.
Liverpool's opening fixtures are encouraging, and injuries to competing forwards may strengthen his central role.
The obvious concern is availability after an injury-hit debut campaign.
Rating: 8.5/10. Minutes: 8/10. Fixtures: 8/10. Risk: medium. Verdict: Consider.
3. Igor Thiago - £8.0m
Thiago scored 22 goals in 37 starts last season and ranked second to Haaland for shots in the box and big chances among forwards.
His expected penalty role and importance to Brentford provide multiple reasons for sustained points.
Rating: 8.6/10. Minutes: 9/10. Fixtures: 7/10. Risk: low to medium. Verdict: Buy.
4. Joao Pedro - £7.5m
Joao Pedro quickly became one of the most popular partners for Haaland after the game launched.
His value depends on maintaining the central Chelsea role. A crowded attack and a new coach mean pre-season line-ups matter.
Rating: 8.0/10. Minutes: 7/10. Fixtures: 7/10. Risk: medium. Verdict: Consider.
5. Viktor Gyokeres - £7.5m
Gyokeres offers an accessible route into Arsenal's attack if he secures the centre-forward position.
The price is attractive, but Saka and other Arsenal attackers may control penalties and creativity.
Rating: 7.8/10. Minutes: 7/10. Fixtures: 8/10. Risk: medium. Verdict: Monitor.
6. Benjamin Sesko - £7.0m
Sesko recorded strong goal involvement when starting under Carrick and Manchester United open with excellent fixtures.
A shin injury and competition for attacking places make him a final-week decision rather than an automatic pick.
Rating: 7.8/10. Minutes: 7/10. Fixtures: 9/10. Risk: medium to high. Verdict: Monitor.
What about the £6.0m forwards?
Dominic Calvert-Lewin, William Osula and Chris Wood can create more balanced squads.
They are not premium forwards, but their value matters when deciding whether Haaland's price is affordable. A reliable £6.0m starter can be more useful than a £7.5m forward with uncertain minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Final verdict: Buy
Haaland remains first for captaincy and risk control. Thiago is the most convincing value alternative, while Isak has the strongest premium ceiling beneath Haaland if his fitness is secure. Do not select the cheaper forwards until the final friendlies clarify minutes. Rate My Team Want advice based on your own squad? Rate your FPL team to review squad balance, expected minutes, fixtures, captaincy and transfer priorities.
Sources
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