Fresh Prospects: Promoted Gems and Budget Stars for FPL 2025-26
This summer, Fantasy Premier League managers are keeping a close eye on three new arrivals: Leeds United, Luton Town, and Burnley. All three sides have stepped up from the Championship and brought fresh blood to the Premier League—along with some real bargains for FPL. Everyone loves a good cheapie with potential to shake up the template. So who should you consider from these newly promoted sides as you build for Gameweek 1?
Let’s start at the back. Leeds might not scream clean sheets, but Dale (£4.0m) could flip the script. If he cements his spot as the starting keeper, you get a regular playing goalie at base price—opening up loads of cash for your Salahs and Haalands. Leeds ranked high in the Championship for attacking output, so he may rack up save points even on tough days. It’s a wait-and-see on preseason lineups, but grabbing a starting £4.0m keeper is as good as it gets.
Don’t stop there with Leeds. Their midfield also offers value, with Ramazani in the mix. He’s got a reputation for creativity, and if manager Daniel Farke lets him loose, he could rack up assists and the odd goal. Leeds’ attacking mindset means there’s upside here, and at a budget price, he’s a smooth fourth or fifth midfielder—perfect for those leaning into big hitters elsewhere.
While Brentford aren’t one of the promoted clubs, keeper Caoimhin Kelleher (£4.5m) is turning heads as a shot-stoppping machine. The Bees are known for a tight defense and absorbing pressure, suiting Kelleher's style. If he joins the first-choice lineup, he looks like the best budget keeper outside of the new boys.
Attackers, Enablers, and Ones to Watch
The story doesn’t end in defense or midfield. You need firepower, and promoted clubs are full of cheap attacking options. Evanilson (£6.0m) and Jorgen Strand Larsen (£6.5m) are standout names. These guys are priced in that sweet spot where you can stretch to three premiums up top, or invest in midfield stars. Evanilson, especially, has a nose for goal—if his preseason form holds up, he’s going to be in a lot of teams.
Then there’s Liam Delap (£7.0m), who’s been linked with a switch to a Premier League club hungry for goals. If that move happens and he nails down a starting role, Delap could get significant minutes and become an early-season differential. FPL managers always hunt for those breakout stars before the price rises kick in.
Looking further back, there are always reliable defenders like Gvardiol and Van Dijk at £6.0m. While these are high-priced picks from established sides—not new blood—they offer proven value for clean sheets and attacking returns. Most managers will still want one steady hand at the back, but your promoted-team punts let you afford premium defenders more easily.
Here’s the tricky part: transfer rumors and pre-season friendlies will have a huge impact on final selections. Roles can change fast, and you want a guaranteed starter above all, even in a cheap squad spot. It’s all about timing—pulling the trigger once you see confirmed lineups. The best way to maximize budget and still have upside? Stick with promoted-team bargains, sprinkle in one or two known quantities, and watch for those early transfer surprises. It’s classic FPL—with a 2025-26 twist.