Best FPL Goalkeepers to Target For The 2025/26 FPL Season

When it comes to building a Fantasy Premier League squad, most managers have their eyes firmly locked on the big names like Salah, Haaland, and Palmer. But while the attacking stars often steal the spotlight, one of the most underrated positions in the game continues to be the goalkeeper. Quietly consistent and often the difference between a green or red arrow, having the right shot-stopper can set the foundation for a strong fantasy campaign.

Last season, the highest-scoring goalkeeper outperformed popular outfield picks such as Van Dijk, Saliba, Gvardiol, Mateta, and Gibbs-White, proving that investing wisely in this position can offer serious value. In this Best FPL Goalkeepers article, I’ll break down the best goalkeeper options across all price points: Premium (5.5m), Mid-Price (5.0m), and Budget (4.5m). I’ll also assess the chances of uncovering a rare gem at 4.0m who could become a regular starter, and I’ll finish with my personal picks for the best options between the sticks to kick off the new season.

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FPL Goalkeepers Analysis For the 2025/26 Season

Premium FPL Goalkeepers(5.5m)

Jordan Pickford (5.5m) – Everton

Jordan Pickford finished last season as the top scoring goalkeeper in FPL, racking up an impressive 158 points. He outscored every other shot-stopper and even every defender in the game. Only 15 players across all positions managed to score more points than the 31-year-old, making him a standout value pick between the sticks.

His consistency was remarkable: 12 clean sheets, 122 saves (the most in the league, averaging 3.2 per game), 2 penalty saves, and even an assist. Perhaps most impressively, Pickford played every minute of Everton’s Premier League campaign, a rare feat that speaks to his reliability.

While he did pick up the most yellow cards of any goalkeeper, that’s a minor blemish in an otherwise stellar season. It’s hardly something fantasy managers need to worry about, especially given how much he delivers in every other category.

Looking ahead, the fixtures make his appeal even stronger. According to Fantasy Football Hub, Everton have the easiest run of games from Gameweek 1 to 7, opening the season against newly promoted Leeds. Their first home league match at their new stadium follows in Gameweek 2, a game where the Toffees will be keen to impress.

Under David Moyes, Everton finished last season in strong defensive form, and they’ll be eager to carry that momentum into the new campaign. At his current price, Pickford looks like a must-consider option for fantasy managers wanting safe hands and serious upside from their goalkeeper slot.

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Fantasy Football Hub(FFHUB)

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David Raya (5.5m) – Arsenal

David Raya finished last season as the third-highest scoring goalkeeper in FPL with 142 points. He played every minute of every Premier League game and shared the Golden Glove award with 13 clean sheets. That level of consistency makes him a strong fantasy option once again this season.

At 5.5 million, Raya is currently the cheapest and most reliable way into Arsenal’s back line. While popular defenders like Gabriel and Saliba come in at 6.0 million, opting for Raya offers a 0.5 million saving without compromising on coverage. Other defensive options at this price point carry some rotation risk early on, especially with Arteta yet to have a fully fit unit to choose from.

Raya’s underlying stats support his value. He made 86 saves last season, averaging 2.2 per game, and consistently delivered points in a strong Arsenal side. The Gunners have recently signed Kepa (4.5m) from Chelsea, but all signs suggest he will be a backup option. Raya remains the first choice and the safest pick in goal for Arsenal.

That said, Arsenal’s opening fixture run is far from ideal. In the first seven gameweeks, they face Man Utd (A), Liverpool (A), Man City (H), and Newcastle (A), all difficult matches where clean sheets may be harder to come by. While Raya looks like a dependable pick over the course of the season, the early schedule may be a reason to wait. He’s a goalkeeper to monitor closely, and one who will likely become a very popular asset once Arsenal’s fixtures ease up.

Further Read: Best £4.0 Million FPL Defenders for the 2025/26 FPL Season

Alisson Becker (5.5m) – Liverpool

Alisson missed ten league matches last season due to injury but still managed to score 112 FPL points from 28 appearances, averaging 4 points per game. When fit, the Brazilian remains one of the most dependable goalkeepers in the game and is now the cheapest and most reliable route into the Champions’ defence.

At 5.5 million, Alisson offers a solid alternative to Liverpool’s outfield options. While Konaté is also priced at 5.5 million, Alisson feels like the safer pick, especially with Liverpool being linked to another centre-back this summer, particularly Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi at 4.5 million. That potential transfer adds some uncertainty to Konaté’s minutes, while Alisson, if fit, is nailed on to start every game.

Liverpool have made some notable additions this summer to strengthen both ends of the pitch. Full-backs Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth and Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen have joined the squad, both priced at 6.0 million. Their arrival should bring more attacking threat and defensive solidity to a side already packed with quality.

The opening fixtures aren’t the hardest but equally not the easiest on paper, but Liverpool have the quality to compete with anyone. Even in tougher matches, Alisson has the potential to deliver clean sheets or rack up save points. He may not be the top goalkeeper pick for the early gameweeks, but over the course of the season, he could prove to be excellent value.

Further Read: FPL Rotational Pairs & Combinations for the 2025/26 FPL Season

Mid-Price FPL Goalkeepers(5.0m)

Matz Sels (5.0m) – Nottingham Forrest

Matz Sels quietly delivered an outstanding FPL season last year, finishing with 150 points, the second-highest total among all goalkeepers. The 33-year-old kept 13 clean sheets, sharing the Golden Glove award, and made 120 saves across the campaign. Only three keepers recorded more. He played every minute of the season and averaged 3.9 points per game.

Sels outscored several high-profile outfield players, including Tottenham’s Solanke and Crystal Palace’s Eze, both priced this season at 7.5 million. That’s an impressive return for a goalkeeper who remains 0.5 million cheaper than the premium options in his position.

Nottingham Forest also benefits from a kind run of early fixtures. In the first seven gameweeks, they face Burnley away and Sunderland at home, with an opening day fixture against Brentford at the City Ground. With Thomas Frank’s departure and the exits of key players like Bryan Mbeumo (8.0 million) and captain Christian Nørgaard (5.5 million), Brentford could struggle to find their rhythm early in the season. If Yoane Wissa (7.5 million) also leaves, their attacking threat could be significantly weakened, a potential boost for Forest’s clean sheet prospects in gameweek 1.

At 5.0 million, Sels is definitely one to consider. He’s slightly cheaper than the top-tier goalkeepers but has already proven he can match, if not exceed, their output. If Forest can build on last season’s defensive foundation, Sels could become one of the standout value picks in goal.

Further Read: Initial FPL GW1 Drafts for the 25/26 FPL Season with Pros & Cons

Dean Henderson (5.0m) – Crystal Palace

Dean Henderson had an excellent season, finishing as the fourth-highest scoring goalkeeper in FPL behind only Raya, Sels, and Pickford. The Crystal Palace shot-stopper played every minute of the campaign, keeping 11 clean sheets and making 104 saves. He was just two clean sheets shy of the Golden Glove and played a key role in Palace’s remarkable FA Cup triumph, including a memorable final win over Manchester City.

At 5.0 million and currently owned by just 3.2% of managers, Henderson offers strong differential appeal. His consistency last season shows he’s capable of delivering, and if Palace can stay tight at the back, there’s clear value to be had.

However, there are a few red flags that FPL managers should consider. Henderson conceded the third-most goals in the league last season, and they face a difficult run to start this campaign. Their opening 3 fixtures include Chelsea (A), Nottingham Forest (H), and Aston Villa (A), with a clash against Liverpool (H) in gameweek 6.

In addition, Palace will be competing in Europe this season following their FA Cup win. Whether they land in the Europa League or Conference League, the added fixtures could lead to rotation and a higher injury risk in the team. Defensive stability could also be shaken if captain Marc Guéhi (4.5 million) departs amid transfer speculation.

If Henderson were priced at 4.5 million, he might be worth the gamble. But given his is 5.0m, Palace’s tough opening fixtures and the extra demands of European football, he may be one to monitor rather than start the season with. There’s no denying his talent, but for now, FPL managers might want to look elsewhere.

Further Read: Best £4.5 Million FPL Defenders for the 2025/26 FPL Season

Robert Sánchez (5.0m) – Chelsea

Robert Sánchez finished last season as the fifth-highest scoring goalkeeper in FPL, earning 126 points. He kept 10 clean sheets in 32 starts and averaged 3.9 points per game. Heading into the new season, Sánchez looks full of confidence and form following an impressive showing in pre-season.

Chelsea recently lifted the Club World Cup, beating PSG 3–0 in the final, and Sánchez was named goalkeeper of the tournament. He saved 22 of the 27 shots he faced, ending with a save percentage close to 82%. Those numbers suggest he’s not just a shot-stopper but a goalkeeper capable of returning big in key moments.

The fixtures are also in his favour. Chelsea plays just one team who finished in the top half of the table in their first five matches, offering a good opportunity for early clean sheets. With the Blues strengthening their squad even further this summer, they look set to improve on last season’s inconsistency.

Chelsea have added more strength to their squad by signing the likes of Liam Delap (6.5m) from Ipswich and João Pedro (7.5m) from Brighton, the latter of whom is currently the most selected player in the game. I expect Chelsea to be strong this season, and Sánchez is a cheap and reliable way into a team that will be hoping to at least finish in the top four.

Further Read: Underpriced FPL Assets at Each ‘Big Six’ Club | 25/26 Season

Budget FPL Goalkeepers(4.5m)

Caoimhin Kelleher (4.5m) – Brentford

The 4.5 million goalkeeper bracket doesn’t look particularly strong this season, but if there is one standout pick, it might be Caoimhin Kelleher. At the time of writing, he is the most selected goalkeeper in the game and for good reason.

Kelleher is entering his first season as a number one in the Premier League after making a summer move to Brentford. He replaces Mark Flekken, who joined Bayer Leverkusen, and will finally get the opportunity to be a regular starter after years as a backup at Liverpool. Despite limited appearances, the 26-year-old made a strong impression during his time at Anfield, keeping 24 clean sheets in 67 matches and breaking the club’s record for most penalty shootout saves.

Last season, he started just 10 games but still managed to save a penalty in the league. Most impressively, he averaged 4.5 points per game, no goalkeeper averaged more during the previous campaign. That kind of efficiency is what makes him so appealing at his price.

However, there are some legitimate concerns. Brentford have undergone major changes this summer. As mentioned, Thomas Frank has left to manage Spurs, and key players like Bryan Mbeumo (8.0m), Christian Nørgaard (5.5m), and Flekken have also departed. That level of upheaval makes it hard to predict how solid Brentford will be. 

Their opening fixtures aren’t kind either. In their first seven games, they face the likes of Nottingham Forest (A), Aston Villa (H), Chelsea (H), Man Utd (H), and Man City (H), all of which could prove tough tests.

In short, Kelleher looks like the best 4.5 million goalkeeper on paper. He is nailed to start, could grab save points and possibly the odd penalty saves, and is great value if you are set on a budget keeper. That said, if you can stretch to 5.0 million, it might be worth spending that extra 0.5 million for a keeper that I think will get you more points and allow you to start the season on the front foot. 

Further Read: List of Free to Join Prize FPL Mini Leagues Ahead of 25/26 Season

Djordje Petrovic (4.5m) – Bournemouth

Djordje Petrovic has taken over as Bournemouth’s new number one following the end of Kepa Arrizabalaga’s (4.5m) loan spell. The Serbian international brings both Premier League and European experience, having played 22 league games for Chelsea during the 2023/24 season before spending last year on loan at RC Strasbourg. He excelled in France, earning Player of the Season honours and helping his side finish 7th in Ligue 1, securing UEFA Conference League qualification.

Petrovic is clearly a talented goalkeeper, but Bournemouth’s opening fixtures are far from ideal. They kick off against Liverpool (A) in Gameweek 1, and also face Spurs (A), Brighton (H), and Newcastle (H) between Gameweeks 3 and 5. Making things more difficult, the Cherries have lost key defensive assets over the summer, including Milos Kerkez (6.0m) to Liverpool and Dean Huijsen, who joined Real Madrid in a £50 million move.

Given the tough early schedule and the weakened defence, Petrovic may not be a stand-alone option. However, he becomes far more appealing when paired with another 4.5m goalkeeper, such as West Ham’s Alphonse Areola. The two rotate extremely well over the first 13 gameweeks. If you alternate them correctly, you’ll face just one of last season’s top six teams during that period, and 12 of the 13 fixtures will be against teams who finished 11th–17th or were promoted.

If you’re planning to include Petrovic in your squad, it’s highly recommended to pair him with Areola. Neither are ideal as solo picks, but as a rotation strategy, the duo could offer strong value while freeing up budget elsewhere in your team.

Further Read: FPL Rotational Pairs & Combinations for the 2025/26 FPL Season

FPL Goalkeepers Watchlist

James Trafford

A Potential Game Changer, But Not Yet

James Trafford (5.0m) is definitely one to keep an eye on. At the time of writing, he is still a Burnley player, but all signs point to a potential return to Manchester City. If Ederson (5.5m) leaves the club and Trafford becomes City’s number one, he would instantly become one of the best value picks in the game at just 5.0 million.

Until the situation is clearer, he is not a goalkeeper to buy just yet, but he is firmly on the watchlist. Should Pep Guardiola hand Trafford the gloves, it would be very difficult to ignore him. A 5.0 million starting goalkeeper for a team like Manchester City, with their clean sheet potential, would be a gift for FPL managers.

Trafford is more than competent. He was part of a Burnley side that set a Football League record, conceding just 16 goals in 46 games in the Championship during the 2024/25 season. Put a keeper of his quality behind City’s defence, and the points could flow quickly.

If we get confirmation that Trafford will start for City, or even a strong hint from pre-season, he will be straight into many FPL teams. For now, monitor the situation closely.

Further Read: Best £4.5 Million FPL Defenders for the 2025/26 FPL Season

So, who shall I pick?

At the time of writing, I’m still undecided on my goalkeeper and overall strategy. However, I believe the best premium pick is Pickford (5.5m), the best mid-price option is Sanchez (5.0m), and the best budget choice is Kelleher (4.5m). Unfortunately, there are no clear 4.0m starters this season. Darlow (4.0m) was a possibility for Leeds, but they have signed Lucas Perri, who is set to be their new number one. Kinksy (4.0m) looks most likely to start unless pre-season injuries change things, with Thomas Frank yet to decide between him and Vicario (5.0m). I lean toward Vicario, but keep an eye on pre-season for updates.

Choosing the right goalkeeper is crucial in FPL. Reliable starters who offer clean sheets and save points usually pay off more than simply going cheap.

Pickford remains a top pick thanks to his clean sheets and saves. Raya offers good value as Arsenal’s number one despite tough early fixtures. Sels and Sanchez provide a solid platform and are worth considering. For budget options, Kelleher stands out, while rotating Petrovic and Areola could work. Keep an eye on Trafford if he becomes City’s starter, as he would be a great bargain.

Your choice depends on your strategy and budget. Whether you prioritise clean sheets, saves, or both, these keepers should provide a solid foundation for your squad.

Thanks for reading! Best of luck this season. If you have any questions or want to chat FPL, message me on Instagram @bazzabarrett20.

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Best £4.5 Million FPL Defenders for the 2025/26 FPL Season
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