Best Cole Palmer FPL Replacements for Gameweek 36

Fantasy Premier League managers are preparing for major midfield changes ahead of FPL Double Gameweek 36, with Cole Palmer emerging as one of the most-sold players. A disappointing recent run, combined with Chelsea’s difficult fixture against Liverpool, has pushed many towards exploring stronger alternatives.

Managers are now prioritising players with form, secure minutes, and clubs still fighting for meaningful objectives. While Manchester City and Crystal Palace dominate discussion because of their double fixtures, Arsenal and Liverpool assets are also climbing rapidly in popularity.

As a result, Gameweek 36 transfer strategy increasingly revolves around finding the best Palmer replacement.

Best Cole Palmer Replacements for FPL Gameweek 36

Bukayo Saka looks the standout Palmer replacement in your Fantasy Premier League side

Bukayo Saka has quickly become one of the leading transfer targets ahead of Gameweek 36. Arsenal’s remaining fixtures against West Ham, Burnley, and Crystal Palace provide huge attacking potential. More importantly, Arsenal still have everything to play for, meaning their key players should continue starting regularly.

Saka’s recent performances have also encouraged managers despite careful workload management after injury. His minutes continue to increase steadily, and Arsenal clearly view him as central to their attacking plans. Even if he does not complete full matches, his ability to produce goals, assists, and bonus points remains elite. For managers selling Palmer, Saka offers a safer combination of form, fixtures, and motivation.

Dominik Szoboszlai emerges as a differential option in FPL GW36

Dominik Szoboszlai is attracting serious attention as a differential midfielder for the final stretch of the season.

Liverpool’s fight for Champions League qualification keeps intensity high, and Szoboszlai’s role within the team continues to grow. He appears likely to take on more responsibility from set pieces and penalties, especially with key attacking absences affecting Liverpool’s structure.

His appeal goes beyond attacking output alone. Strong defensive contribution numbers make him particularly valuable under the current scoring system. He also continues to play advanced midfield roles while consistently completing ninety minutes. Managers looking for a lower-owned Palmer replacement may see Szoboszlai as one of the most balanced options available.

Rayan Cherki offers stronger Double Gameweek upside

Managers wanting to maximise Double Gameweek 36 may turn towards Rayan Cherki instead. Manchester City’s double fixture naturally increases the appeal of their attacking players, but rotation concerns remain a major talking point. Semenyo’s declining form and uncertain minutes have created opportunities elsewhere in Pep Guardiola’s squad.

Cherki now looks the sharper and more explosive option. His recent performances suggest growing confidence, creativity, and attacking freedom within the side. Although moving between Manchester City midfielders can feel like a luxury transfer, expected minutes become critical during double Gameweeks.

For aggressive managers chasing rank, Cherki could deliver significant upside.

Crystal Palace assets still divide opinion

Crystal Palace players remain difficult to assess despite their double Gameweek.

Defensive options like Dean Henderson, Chris Richards, and Daniel Muñoz all carry appeal because of the extra fixture. However, uncertainty around rotation and fatigue continues to worry managers. Palace’s involvement in European competition increases the likelihood of careful minute management across the squad.

Because of that uncertainty, some managers now prefer strengthening their teams with premium midfielders instead of forcing Palace defenders into transfers. Arsenal and Liverpool assets appear more reliable over the final three Gameweeks, particularly for those planning beyond Double Gameweek 36.

Back-four systems becoming more popular for FPL Gameweek 36

Squad structure is also changing as managers move money into midfield. Back-four formations are becoming increasingly common, especially with defenders like Gabriel, O’Reilly, Van Hecke, and James Hill offering strong value. These defenders combine clean sheet potential with reliable defensive contribution scoring.

Meanwhile, Erling Haaland remains the standout captain choice despite Manchester City’s recent inconsistency. Bruno Fernandes continues to provide steady returns and still looks essential in midfield. Difficult bench decisions now surround forwards like João Pedro and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, as many managers prioritise stronger midfield combinations instead.

Fantasy Premier League Gameweek 36 could prove decisive for overall rank, particularly for managers making aggressive midfield changes.

Cole Palmer’s decline has opened the door for several elite replacements, each offering different advantages. Bukayo Saka brings security and fixtures, Dominik Szoboszlai offers differential value, and Rayan Cherki delivers explosive double Gameweek potential. Choosing correctly may shape the outcome of the entire FPL season.