THT FPL Top Budget Buy Recommendations: Gameweek 25

The Hard Tackle lists the five best budget buys to consider to bring into your team heading into FPL Gameweek 25 of the 2025/26 season.

Gameweek 25 in FPL brings some tasty fixtures where clever managers can grab value picks without breaking the bank. With budgets tight for many teams chasing those top ranks, turning to under-the-radar players who face shaky opponents is a smart play right now.

These budget gems shine because their prices sit low while their form screams potential hauls. Think defenders who rack up clean sheet points plus bonuses, midfielders chipping in goals and assists, and forwards ready to pounce on weak defenses. Sunderland, Brighton & Hove Albion, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Leeds United all have matchups that play into their hands.

FPL bosses love these picks since they free up cash for stars elsewhere in the squad. Nordi Mukiele, Jan Paul van Hecke, Casemiro, Enzo Fernandez, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin stand out as top shouts at £4.5m to £6.8m. Their recent runs make them must-considers, especially with opponents leaking points like sieves.

Managers eyeing the long haul will find these lads fitting Gameweek 25 and beyond, dodging rotation risks and nailing those DEFCON bonuses every week. Let us dive into why each one deserves a spot on your team sheet this week.

Nordi Mukiele: Sunderland’s rock

Sunderland have shown real grit this 2025/26 season, punching above their weight and keeping things tight at the back despite a tough schedule. That defensive resolve turns Nordi Mukiele into a prime target for Gameweek 25 of FPL, where his side faces an Arsenal team that has been patchy lately.

Mukiele does not just sit back; he grabs DEFCON points week in, week out by mopping up loose balls and shutting down attacks. The Frenchman’s price tag of £4.5m looks like daylight robbery when you check his recent haul, like that nine-point return in the 3-0 win over Burnley, plus steady bonus grabs from tackles and recoveries. That makes him a no-brainer budget enabler who pays back fast. Sunderland’s home form only boosts his appeal.

Jan Paul van Hecke: Brighton’s bonus machine

Crystal Palace have been all over the shop this season, mixing flashes of brilliance with leaks at the back that oppositions feast on. That is music to Brighton & Hove Albion fans’ ears heading into Gamweek 25, and Jan Paul van Hecke is leading the charge with his all-action displays. The Dutchman has been a DEFCON king, snagging those defensive points while chipping in at the other end; think goals from set pieces and crosses that turn into assists.

At £4.5m, van Hecke is pure value after a run where he has bagged three goals, an assist, and multiple clean sheets lately, totaling serious points in nearly every outing. His goal threat in the box sets him apart from cookie-cutter budget options, and with Crystal Palace struggling for consistency, expect more joy. Brighton’s setup lets him roam, too.

Casemiro: Manchester United’s midfield muscle

Casemiro has been a revelation for Manchester United this term, banging in five goals and four assists while bossing the midfield like his old self. Pair that with Tottenham’s wobbly form (they have no clean sheets in five and goals are flying in) and you have got a Gameweek 25 dream setup for the Brazilian. He is the heartbeat of Manchester United’s squad, always involved in the dirty work that nets big FPL rewards.

The veteran midfielder’s points history screams reliability: leading Manchester United in defensive stats at over nine per match, 14 bonuses, and those attacking returns keeping hauls juicy. At £5.5m, he is a steal for his class and minutes guarantee, especially vital in Michael Carrick’s system. Spurs’ backline woes make this his time to shine big.

Enzo Fernandez: Chelsea’s advanced ace

Wolverhampton Wanderers have been a rollercoaster all season, leaking chances and struggling to hold firm against creative sparks. Enter Enzo Fernandez for Chelsea in Gamweek 25 of FPL. The Argentine thrives in advanced roles, drifting forward to unlock defenses with his vision and shots. Wolves’ inconsistencies scream opportunity for his point-grabbing ways.

Fernandez’s recent form includes near-misses like that corner rocket and key crosses leading to goals, building a solid points tally from assists and bonuses. Priced at £6.8m, the World Cup winner punches above his weight thanks to those forward forays, making him ideal for managers needing midfield firepower without mega spend. Chelsea’s push keeps him central to their hauls.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin: Leeds United’s poacher

Dominic Calvert-Lewin has lit up Leeds United’s attack this season, feasting on chances before a short dip that feels like it can turn any moment. Facing Nottingham Forest, who have been frail at the back hands him a golden shot to fire back into top form. The Englishman’s aerial power and hold-up play terrorize defenses like Forest’s.

At £6.0m, Calvert-Lewin is budget gold for Gameweek 25 and the run-in, with recent exploits showing hauls waiting if he clicks. Nottingham Forest, full of defensive gaps, could spark a streak, easing any worries of an extended lull. Leeds United need his goals, so expect the Englishman at full throttle.

FPL Budget Transfer Recommendations at a Glance

Honourable Mentions

A few other shouts are worth eyeing if you tweak your budget: Joe Rodon for his set-piece threat, Alex Jimenez bringing pace from wings, Mateus Fernandes in midfield form, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall with creative sparks, Harry Wilson with his form, Elliot Anderson for the solidity, Brian Brobbey bullying lines, Thierno Barry’s speed, and Mateus Mane lurking wide. Keep tabs on these players.