Tottenham land Fernandes in £85m deal: FPL impact assessed

Tottenham have reportedly sealed a club-record £85m deal for Mateus Fernandes from West Ham, a transfer that sends ripples through the FPL landscape. The Portugal international's move to a new system under Roberto De Zerbi could unlock significant FPL potential, especially given his proven track record in the Premier League. Managers will be keenly watching how this high-profile transfer impacts his FPL output and ownership ahead of the new season.

By the numbers

• Position: MID
• Price: £10.4m
• Availability: fully available
• FPL expected points next GW (ep_next): 5.5
• This season: 235 pts, 3065 mins, 9 goals, 24 assists, 7 clean sheets, 287 defensive-contribution (DEFCON) pts, PPG 6.7, form 0.0, xGI 23.07, owned by 48.0%
• 2025/26: 235 pts, 3065 mins, 9 goals, 24 assists, 7 clean sheets
• 2024/25: 174 pts, 3017 mins, 8 goals, 12 assists, 10 clean sheets
• 2023/24: 166 pts, 3118 mins, 10 goals, 9 assists, 7 clean sheets

The FPL verdict

Mateus Fernandes's arrival at Tottenham for a record fee all but guarantees him a starting role and significant minutes in Roberto De Zerbi's midfield. His consistent FPL returns, including 235 points and 24 assists last season, suggest he will be a central figure in Spurs' attacking plans. With an expected points next GW (ep_next) of 5.5, he's projected for solid early returns, making him a strong candidate for an immediate FPL investment. His 287 DEFCON points also highlight his all-round contribution, which could see him pick up additional FPL bonus points.

While his current ownership of 48.0% indicates he's not a differential, a move to a potentially more attacking Tottenham side under De Zerbi could elevate his FPL ceiling even further. De Zerbi's system, known for its possession-based and attacking football, could provide Fernandes with ample opportunities to build on his impressive assist numbers. This transfer, coming after West Ham's relegation and Tottenham narrowly avoiding relegation themselves, suggests a fresh start and a manager with significant funds to build a competitive squad. Fernandes could be a key beneficiary, potentially increasing his FPL appeal even at his premium £10.4m price point.