Top 10 Most Expensive Defenders in FPL 2024/25

FPL or Fantasy Premier League has become a global phenomenon, boasting millions of managers worldwide. Its popularity is fueled by the thrill of strategic team selection, the excitement of matchday points, and the competitive edge it adds to watching the Premier League.

With over 9 million players as of the 2022/23 season, FPL has solidified its status as the world’s most popular fantasy football game.

Also Read: 5 Best Budget Defenders to Buy in FPL 2024/25 Season

List of The Most Expensive Defenders in FPL this season

10. Kyle Walker

Kyle Walker was once a mainstay in most FPL teams, but times have changed. Pep Guardiola’s penchant for rotation has left Walker mostly unaffected in the past but his recent dip in form means that he isn’t the best pick anymore.

While his price point might seem tempting, other defenders like Manchester City teammate Rúben Dias probably offer a better value. With cheaper, equally capable options, it’s increasingly difficult to justify selecting Walker over other, more reliable defenders.

His days as a must-have FPL asset seem to be behind him. He costs £5.5m and is owned by 9.5% of the people. He averaged 3.8 points last season.

9. Kieran Trippier

Kieran Trippier is an interesting option in FPL this season. Newcastle United’s defensive solidity generally means good returns for defenders. Trippier’s form however has dipped, and the emergence of Tino Livramento means that minutes could dwindle.

While his set-piece ability and crossing remain a threat, there are more consistent defensive options at a similar price point. Rumored links to West Ham United however could further revitalize his prospects.

Considering these factors, it is surprising that Trippier at £6.0m has 14.1% ownership. He averaged 4 points a game week last time around.

8. Joško Gvardiol

Joško Gvardiol is emerging as a must-have FPL asset. The Croatian defender has seamlessly integrated into Pep Guardiola’s system, showcasing his versatility perfectly. With four goals and two assists in his final seven matches last season, Gvardiol’s high potential for returns is undeniable.

Pep Guardiola’s trust in him, coupled with Manchester City’s defensive solidity, makes him a prime candidate for consistent returns. His price point offers excellent value considering his potential for both clean sheets and attacking points.

The 22-year-old costs £6.0 and averaged 4.4 points last campaign which is why 32.9% of the managers have him in their teams.

7. Virgil van Dijk

Virgil van Dijk has been a consistent FPL asset for several seasons, renowned for his defensive solidity and occasional attacking contributions. His ability to deliver clean sheets and earn bonus points has made him a very reliable pick.

However, the arrival of new manager Arne Slot at Liverpool means a new beginning. A potential change in the system could impact van Dijk’s attacking returns and clean sheet potential.

While the Dutchman’s defensive prowess remains unquestionable, his FPL value might fluctuate depending on the team’s overall performance under the new boss. He is available at £6.0 with 12% ownership and last season’s average of 3.2 points a game.

6. Andrew Robertson

Andrew Robertson was once a very coveted FPL asset but he endured a challenging campaign last season. His attacking output and defensive contributions dipped significantly, impacting his overall FPL returns.

However, the arrival of Arne Slot at Liverpool as new manager offers a fresh start. Slot’s emphasis on attacking football could revitalize Robertson’s offensive abilities.

While uncertainty remains, the potential for a resurgence makes him an intriguing option for patient FPL managers. The Scotsman’s price point of £6.0m offers value, and if he can regain his previous form, he could be a shrewd pick.

Robertson averaged 3.3 points per season and has been selected by 5.8% of owners.

Also Read: 5 Best Budget Midfielders to Buy in FPL 2024/25 season

5. Riccardo Calafiori

Riccardo Calafiori has emerged as an intriguing FPL prospect following his move to Arsenal after some very impressive performances for Bologna.

Known for his all-round defending as well as in-possession quality, he contributed five assists and two goals from the center-back position last season highlighting his offensive capabilities.

The Italian’s price point at £6.0m, combined with Arsenal’s strong defense makes him a tempting differential pick as only 2.4% of owners have him.

However, competition for places in the Arsenal defense will be fierce, and his game time is uncertain. If the 22-year-old can secure a regular starting role, Calafiori has the potential to be a standout FPL asset.

4. William Saliba

William Saliba stands out as one of the safest defensive options in FPL. Arsenal’s solid defensive record, coupled with their proficiency from attacking set pieces, significantly enhances Saliba’s potential for both clean sheets and goal involvement.

His consistent performances and secure starting spot make him a reliable asset. While the Frenchman’s price might be slightly higher, his potential returns justify the investment.

The 23-year-old is believed to be among the best defenders in the league and another very solid campaign is to be expected. He too costs £6.0m and is owned by a whopping 39.7% of people. The defender averaged 4.3 points last season.

3. Gabriel Magalhães

Gabriel Magalhães has emerged as a dependable FPL asset due to his pivotal role in Arsenal’s robust defense. Partnering with William Saliba, he has been instrumental in securing clean sheets.

Last season, Arsenal boasted the league’s best defensive record, significantly boosting the value of their defenders. Gabriel’s aerial prowess and goal-scoring threat make him a standout. His four goals last season, including crucial headers from set pieces, highlight his attacking potential.

While Saliba might garner more attention, Gabriel offers more interesting options thanks to his goals. However, it’s essential to monitor Arsenal’s defensive lineup, as competition for places could impact Gabriel’s playing time.

He is available for £6.0m, owned by 11.6% of the people and averaged 4.1 points.

2. Ben White

Ben White, priced at £6.5m, has evolved into a dynamic FPL asset. His attacking returns, particularly his understanding with Bukayo Saka, has seen him contribute significantly to Arsenal’s attacking output.

With a knack for overlapping runs and delivering accurate crosses, White offers great point-scoring potential, especially given Arsenal’s fantastic defensive record. However, the return of Jurrien Timber adds competition for places in Arsenal’s defense.

While White’s versatility makes him a tempting pick, his playing time security might be a concern. The Englishman averaged a very high 4.9 points last season and therefore 11.9% of people have chosen him.

1. Trent Alexander-Arnold

Trent Alexander-Arnold has been an FPL goldmine for several seasons. His exceptional attacking numbers, in particular the remarkable assist record, make him a standout asset.

The full-back’s ability to create scoring opportunities and contribute goals has earned him the huge price tag of £7.0m. The arrival of Arne Slot, known for his attacking philosophy, could further enhance Alexander-Arnold’s offensive output.

While his defensive skills are often under scrutiny, his attacking returns alone make him a compelling option for FPL managers willing to invest in a high-potential defender. He is presently owned by 22.4% of the managers and averaged 4.4 points last time.

Also Read: 5 Best Budget Goalkeepers to Buy in FPL 2024/25 Season