Top 5 Forwards to Pick in Fantasy EFL 2025/26
As part of our summer series preparing Fantasy EFL managers for the new campaign, we’re breaking down the best picks in each position ahead of the 2025/26 season. In this article, we focus on the top 5 forwards to pick in Fantasy EFL 2025/26.
Whether you’re building an early draft or planning transfers, these are the forwards to keep on your radar. To help us we brought in Fantasy EFL expert @FPL_Jack15.
Yousef Salech – Cardiff City
After a surprising relegation from the Championship, Cardiff will aim for an immediate return to League One. Salech is set to play a vital role during their campaign. Since joining in January, he achieved eight goals and two assist in 20 appearances, creating an XGI (Expected Goal Involvement) of 0.56 per 90. He averaged 3.17 shots per match, and alongside his penalty duties, he will therefore be a popular and top asset for the upcoming season.
Aaron Collins – MK Dons
He spent last season at Bolton, where his form at the end made him a popular asset. He now joins MK Dons as one of Paul Warne’s statement signings to lead the line and bolster their hopes for the automatics. Collins had 45 appearances, achieving 12 goals and five assists. He recorded an XGI of 0.45 per 90 and averaged 2.13 shots per game. He is also one of the main contenders to be on penalty duties and therefore will be a key asset in the upcoming season.
Fantasy EFL managers can also check out the top 5 goalkeepers for the new season, to further help with preparations.
Sam Nombe – Rotherham United
Nombre had a solid end to last season and could be an under-the-radar pick if that form continues. He played 43 times, netting 14 goals and seven assists. He averaged 2.27 shots per game and accumulated an XGI of 0.51 per 90. Nombre is set to play a key role in Rotherham’s push this season, and when Rotherham have a good fixture, he will be a great option to consider in your team.
Nahki Wells – Luton Town
He played a key part in Bristol City’s playoff push last season. Wells has now joined Luton Town ahead of the new campaign. At 35 years old, he will be one of the older forwards in the league, but his experience and goal threat could make him a golden asset. Luton are among the most attacking sides in the division and therefore will be expected to score heavily.
Last season, Wells recorded 10 goals and four assists in 39 appearances, with an XGI of 0.54 per 90 minutes and an average of 2.45 shots per 90. In a more attacking system at Luton, those numbers could rise further, making him a fantastic asset.
Lee Bonis – Chesterfield
After missing out on promotion in the playoff final, Chesterfield will be aiming to go one step further this season. New signing, international Lee Bonis, could be an exciting under-the-radar pick. He joins from ADO Den Haag and has already impressed in pre-season with a goal and an assist.
Last season, he recorded 11 goals and three assists in 35 league appearances, with an average of 2.2 shots per game. He accumulated an XGI of 0.43 per 90. If he settles quickly, Bonis could become a key asset in Chesterfield’s push for promotion, alongside his striking partner, Griggs.
