More than 1.5 million managers have sold João Pedro ahead of Gameweek 9, while Nicolas Jackson has attracted over 1.17 million transfers in. But is the most popular replacement the best option for your team?
Using our Transfer Analytics tool, we explore five popular FPL Gameweek 9 transfers, comparing recent form, underlying numbers and upcoming fixtures.
Jackson, Isak and Evanilson offer three different routes to replacing João Pedro. Meanwhile, Marcus Tavernier is attracting managers looking to reshape their midfield.
João Pedro leads the sales with 1,526,037 transfers out, comfortably ahead of Calafiori on 423,264. Saka has also lost 275,300 owners.
Jackson is the most-bought player, with 1,179,855 transfers in. Tavernier follows on 800,005, ahead of Evanilson on 478,401 and Isak on 448,226.
Bournemouth’s popularity is a clear theme, with both Tavernier and Evanilson attracting significant investment before their home match against Leeds.
João Pedro to Jackson comfortably leads the transfer combinations table, displaying 22.9%, followed by João Pedro to Isak at 7.6%.
Below, we examine five moves from the top 10:
Price: £6.8m | Last three fixtures: 24 points | Next opponents: Fulham, Manchester United, Sunderland
João Pedro’s thigh injury has left owners searching for a replacement, and Jackson is the clear favourite in the transfer market.
The Aston Villa forward has scored three goals in his last three fixtures, collecting six bonus points along the way.
His shooting numbers strengthen the case: 11 attempts, including five on target, with an expected FPL points total (xFPL) of 23.91 closely matching his 24-point return.
Villa host Fulham in Gameweek 9 before facing Manchester United and Sunderland. That combination of recent form, price and fixtures explains Jackson’s appeal.
Transfer verdict: Jackson offers a strong balance of affordability and recent attacking output. His popularity is backed by more than just a headline points total.
Still weighing up your options?
Read our João Pedro replacement guide for a closer look at the alternatives.
Price: £9.1m | Last three fixtures: 18 points | Next opponents: Arsenal, Crystal Palace, Manchester United
Isak is the more expensive route out of João Pedro, with 448,226 managers bringing him in ahead of Gameweek 9.
The Liverpool striker has scored twice and earned six bonus points across his last three games. His 18-point return exceeds his 14.94 xFPL, although both figures trail Jackson’s over the same period.
The immediate obstacle is Arsenal at home. Crystal Palace and Manchester United follow, so this transfer needs to be assessed beyond Gameweek 9.
At £2.3m more than Jackson, Isak also requires a bigger commitment of your budget.
Transfer verdict: A premium alternative for managers planning ahead, but the Arsenal fixture and higher price make him a less straightforward immediate replacement.
Price: £6.2m | Last three fixtures: 25 points | Next opponents: Leeds, Ipswich, Nottingham Forest
Evanilson has scored more points than either Jackson or Isak over the last three fixtures, despite costing less than both.
The Bournemouth forward has produced three goals, one assist and four bonus points during that spell. His 13 shots underline his goal threat, while an xFPL total of 20.61 provides further encouragement.
His 25-point return is above that expected total, so managers should avoid assuming the same scoring rate will continue. Even so, the combination of price and attacking involvement is attractive.
Bournemouth face Leeds, Ipswich and Nottingham Forest next, giving Evanilson a promising run in which to build on his form.
He is also under 10% owned, although with 478,401 transfers in, he may not remain a differential for long.
Transfer verdict: Evanilson is a compelling option for managers seeking a cheaper João Pedro replacement, particularly if the savings improve another position.
Wissa’s last three fixtures: 4 points | Next opponents: Everton, Fulham, Arsenal
Wissa’s recent form makes this switch easy to understand. He has failed to score in his last three fixtures, collecting just four FPL points.
Despite taking nine shots, only one has hit the target. His 7.73 xFPL suggests he could have returned more, but it remains well below Jackson’s 23.91 over the same period. His benching last Gameweek may have been the final straw for his owners.
Wissa faces Everton and Fulham before a difficult trip to Arsenal in Gameweek 11. Jackson, meanwhile, has scored three goals in his last three fixtures and now hosts Fulham.
Wissa to Jackson ranks seventh among the most popular transfer combinations, accounting for 2.1% of moves in the table.
Transfer verdict: Jackson’s recent numbers offer a clear improvement. However, managers also carrying injured players should consider which transfer is most urgent.
Tavernier’s price: £6.4m | Last three fixtures: 21 points | Next opponents: Leeds, Ipswich, Nottingham Forest
Saka’s thigh injury has prompted 275,300 transfers out, with Tavernier emerging as one of the popular replacements.
The Bournemouth midfielder has scored twice and collected four bonus points over his last three fixtures, returning 21 FPL points.
His creative contribution adds to the appeal. Tavernier has created two big chances during that period, while his involvement in corners and free-kick delivery provides further opportunities for attacking returns.
An xFPL total of 22.92 supports his recent performances, and Bournemouth’s next three opponents strengthen the case for investment.
At 20.4% ownership, Tavernier is already an established pick. This move is about buying an in-form midfielder and releasing funds for upgrades elsewhere.
Transfer verdict: Tavernier offers form, fixtures and a lower price. The value of selling Saka also depends on the latest injury news and how you use the money saved.
For managers replacing João Pedro, the choice comes down to budget and priorities:
Tavernier offers a route to restructuring midfield, while Wissa owners have a clear form-based reason to consider Jackson.
Use our Transfer Analytics tool to follow the latest buying, selling and transfer combinations before deciding which move improves your squad most.
Transfer totals and ownership reflect the data available at the time of writing and may change before the deadline.
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