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EA FC 24: Best Cheap Young Defenders for Career Mode Success

Last Updated: October 28, 2025

EA FC 24 Career Mode: Find cheap, high-potential defensive players.

Every successful Career Mode journey in EA FC 24 is built on a solid foundation, and that foundation is a rock-solid defense. While it’s tempting to splash your entire transfer budget on a world-class striker, savvy managers know that championships are won at the back. The challenge, especially when taking over a smaller club or managing a tight budget, is finding defenders who won't break the bank but possess the potential to become superstars.

That's where we come in. We've scoured the databases, sent out our virtual scouts, and identified the must-buy cheap defenders in EA FC 24. These players combine a low initial transfer fee with a sky-high potential rating, ensuring you get maximum return on your investment. Whether you need a towering center-back to dominate aerial duels or a pacey fullback to overlap on the attack, this guide has the perfect player to shore up your defense for seasons to come.

Why Smart Defensive Signings Matter

In the world of EA FC 24 Career Mode, signing a young player with high potential is the most effective strategy for long-term success. Buying a defender for €2 million who can later be sold for €50 million—or better yet, become the captain of your Champions League-winning squad—is the ultimate goal. These budget beasts not only save you money upfront but also grow with your team, developing into world-class talents right before your eyes thanks to the game's Dynamic Potential system. Let's dive into the top defensive bargains you need to target from day one.

Jorne Spileers (CB)

  • Club: Club Brugge
  • Overall: 71
  • Potential: 85
  • Approx. Value: €4.5m

Belgium continues to be a hotbed for top talent, and Jorne Spileers is a prime example. At just 18 years old, he already possesses the well-rounded stats of a much more experienced defender. He’s reasonably quick, strong in the tackle, and comfortable on the ball with solid short passing. Standing at 6’2”, he isn't easily bullied in the air. Spileers is the ideal first signing for a team in a top-flight division that needs a third-choice center-back who can rotate in for cup games and quickly develop into a starting-caliber player within two seasons.

Patrick Dorgu (LB/LWB)

  • Club: Lecce
  • Overall: 65
  • Potential: 85
  • Approx. Value: €1.9m

Modern football demands attacking contributions from full-backs, and Patrick Dorgu is the perfect budget-friendly prospect for the role. Playing in Italy's Serie A, he might fly under the radar due to his low initial overall rating, but don't be fooled. Dorgu is blessed with electric pace (85 Acceleration, 86 Sprint Speed) and high stamina right from the start. He is more than capable of bombing up and down the left flank for the full 90 minutes. While his defensive stats need work, his potential is enormous, and under your guidance (and with a good development plan), he'll become a complete, world-class wing-back. For his price, he's arguably the best value signing in his position.

Leon King (CB)

  • Club: Rangers
  • Overall: 66
  • Potential: 84
  • Approx. Value: €2.1m

For managers looking for a true long-term project, Leon King is your man. Found in the Scottish Premiership, he is an incredibly cheap option with a fantastic potential ceiling. While his starting stats aren’t spectacular, they are perfectly balanced for a young center-back. He has decent pace, good jumping, and solid foundational defensive stats. King is the type of player you sign for your EFL Championship team and nurture on your way to the Premier League. With consistent playing time, he will grow into a composed, reliable defender who can anchor your backline for a decade.

Michael Kayode (RB/RWB)

  • Club: Fiorentina
  • Overall: 70
  • Potential: 84
  • Approx. Value: €3.5m

If you're looking for a reliable, well-rounded right-back who is almost ready to perform in a top league, look no further than Michael Kayode. The most 'first-team ready' fullback on our list, his standout attribute is his blistering pace. He also boasts impressive stamina and agility, making him a constant threat down the right wing. His defensive stats are solid for his rating and will grow quickly. His High/High work rates mean he is a constant presence in both defense and attack. Kayode is a perfect signing for a mid-table Premier League team or a top-tier Championship club pushing for promotion, providing immediate quality and long-term value.

Tips for Scouting Your Own Defensive Gems

While our list is a great starting point, the real fun in Career Mode is unearthing your own wonderkids. Use the Global Transfer Network (GTN) effectively by setting up specific instructions. Scout for players aged 16-21 with the "Promising" trait. Don't neglect leagues outside of Europe's top five; countries like Argentina, Belgium, Scotland, and the Netherlands are often goldmines for undervalued talent. Pay attention to player stats beyond their overall rating—a defender with high pace and strength can be effective immediately, even if their tackling needs work. Happy scouting, gaffers