Best FPL Forwards 2026-27

Premium forwards — Haaland, Isak, Watkins

Haaland (14m+) remains the template; Isak (Newcastle, 11m) was 25/26's most consistent points-per-pound striker; Watkins (Aston Villa, 9-10m) the bridge tier. Pick one premium striker — the captaincy decision flows from this choice. Haaland-template managers won 25/26 in most mini-leagues.

Mid-price forwards — 7-8m

Wood (Forest) hit 20-goal pace in 25/26; Cunha (Man United, if confirmed move) is the dark horse; Tonali-flanked Isak is the alternative. Mid-price forwards have to score 12+ to justify the slot — pick ones with proven minutes + supply.

Budget forwards — 5-6m

Cheap starting strikers exist but are matchup-dependent. Cody (returning), Strand Larsen, Welbeck — these become 8-12-goal scorers in 6m bands. They're the 4th forward who only starts in DGWs. Don't over-think it; pick one that you don't need to actively manage.

Differentials — strikers under 8% ownership

25/26's breakout was Cunha (sub-5% GW1, 18% by GW10). 26/27 candidates: newly-signed CFs to top-6 clubs (always check who the manager has signed), and any 7-8m striker on a guaranteed starter role at a fixture-friendly opening period.

Captaining strikers

Haaland captaincy is the default for 60%+ of managers. The differential captain plays go via Isak (vs softer fixtures), Palmer / Salah for midfield captains. The model board flags when an under-owned striker has the best xP for a given GW.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the best FPL forward for 2026/27?

Haaland remains the template at 14m. The differentiator is whether you can afford the Salah + Haaland double-premium combo, which top-1% squads will run. Isak at 11m is the cheaper template alternative.

Should I play one or two premium forwards?

Most top-1% squads play one premium (Haaland or Isak) + one mid-price (Wood, Cunha, Watkins). Two premiums means sacrificing midfield depth — the maths doesn't support it.

What's the best budget FPL striker for 2026/27?

5.5-6m budget forwards rarely start consistently. Look for managers picking the same striker every week + having a viable backup at 5.0m. The Onside model surfaces the cheapest starting CFs each week.

Are differential forwards worth the risk?

Yes, but only when 8m+ of the squad is locked in. A differential forward at 7m can return 25%+ over a template at the same price — but you need the rest of the squad working first.