The short answer
Maxim De Cuyper (£4.5m) is one of the most interesting late FPL role changes because Brighton used the defender on the left side of the attack in their final friendly against Bologna.
The move came with Yankuba Minteh (£6.0m) injured. Official Premier League analysis says reports suggest Minteh could miss two to three months. De Cuyper therefore offers the possibility of defender scoring while occupying a much more advanced position — but one friendly does not guarantee the role every week.
| Factor | De Cuyper |
|---|---|
| Price | £4.5m |
| FPL position | DEF |
| Final-friendly role | Left side of attack |
| Trigger | Minteh injury |
| Upside | Attacking returns + defender scoring |
| Risk | Role can revert |
Why out-of-position defenders matter
A player classified as a defender can collect four clean-sheet points while attacking from a midfield or wing position. If the advanced role persists, the same player also gets more opportunities for goals and assists.
That classification mismatch is one of the most valuable things to identify before GW1.
What is confirmed versus projected
Confirmed: De Cuyper was promoted into Brighton's attack for the final Bologna friendly and official FPL analysis highlighted the role.
Projected: that he stays there for multiple Gameweeks. Brighton can change shape or use another attacker, so managers should treat the final-friendly role as a strong clue rather than a permanent promise.
De Cuyper versus Brighton alternatives
| Option | Main appeal |
|---|---|
| De Cuyper £4.5m | Potential advanced role |
| Lewis Dunk £4.5m | Centre-back security/DefCon |
| Luka Vuskovic £5.0m | Set-piece goal threat |
Related on OneFPL
OneFPL verdict
De Cuyper is a high-upside £4.5m defender if the advanced role survives into GW1. If the predicted lineup places him back at full-back, he remains viable but loses the special reason to pick him.
FAQ
Is De Cuyper a defender in FPL?
Yes. He costs £4.5m and is classified as a defender.
Did he play in attack in the final friendly?
Yes. Brighton used him on the left side of their attack against Bologna while Minteh was unavailable.
Is the role guaranteed?
No. It is a strong GW1 clue, not a season-long guarantee.
Sources
OneFPL analysis. OneFPL is an independent Fantasy Premier League companion and is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to the Premier League or Fantasy Premier League.
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