The Brazilian should play in an advanced midfield position behind Rodrigo Muniz, and his starting role shouldn’t be under any serious threat unless his performances dip considerably.
Although you should bear in mind players like Harry Wilson and Alex Iwobi can also offer something in the CAM position, so if he happens to be benched it would likely be for either of those two players.
Nevertheless, 33 and 34 starts in the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 seasons respectively means he’s considered an integral part of the starting 11.
He’s a decent shout at £5.5m as he’ll be on the majority of set pieces and is in the conversation for penalty duty as well. 3 goals and 9 assists can definitely be improved upon should he be tasked with converting from the spot, making him an even better pick at that price range.
Emile Smith Rowe (£5.5m)
A talented player on his day, Smith Rowe is a good acquisition for Fulham who will get games as a LW or CAM.
Wait and see how he’s utilised by Marco Silva.
Alex Iwobi (£5.5m)
Here we have a versatile midfielder who can play across all the attacking midfield positions (RW, CAM and LW).
His attacking output last season came to 3 goals and 9 assists, which is fairly average all things considered.
With the prospect of rotation at LW due to the presence of Willian on the roster, he’s someone I’d be avoiding as his team mate Andreas Pereira is a much better option at the same price point.
Harry Wilson (£5.5m)
The departure of Bobby Decordova Reid to Ipswich Town means Wilson will get a little bit more playing time on the RW.
However, he’ll face competition for a starting berth from speedster Adama Traore, so he’s not someone I would recommend for £5.5m.
Willian (£5m)
Will play the majority of his minutes from LW, although he’s capable of switching over to the opposite flank if needed in that position.
Hard pass at this price due to the rotation risk.
Harrison Reed (£5m) / Saša Lukić (£5m)
Both players will occupy the holding midfield spots and will probably take turns to drive forward into the opponent’s penalty box when needed.
Not assets you should consider purchasing due to their tame goal and assist threat.