Football Manager 2023 is almost here, with brand new features announced for this year's game.
With that in mind, we know gaffers will already want to start planning those shortlists ahead of this year's game, and we've got you covered for the best defensive midfielders (DMs) you can sign in FM23.
If you're a top club looking for a new anchor, don't overlook these tough-tackling stars.
Joshua Kimmich
There's no doubt that German star Kimmich is the best defensive midfielder around in FM23, with the versatile 27-year-old able to dominate for many years to come.
Kimmich is a hot commodity and would cost a pretty penny, but we think this initial investment could prove lucrative in the long run.
Sandro Tonali
If it's a rising star you're after then look no further than Italian sensation Sandro Tonali, with the AC Milan star possessing the CA and PA to become an instant club legend.
One of the younger options on this list, Tonali would also cost a fair sum of money, but that shouldn't dissuade you from securing one of the most exciting midfield talents in the world.
Casemiro
Recently moving to Manchester United to ply his trade in the Premier League for the very first time, Casemiro is once again a top star in Football Manager 2023.
A Champions League winner last term, Casemiro is a dominating midfielder who will no doubt leave your opponents with a few bruises.
Leon Goretzka
A slightly cheaper alternative to Kimmich, Goreztka possess a very similar profile.
Both 27, both German and both able to play in multiple positions, Goretzka represents the more physical of the two and that could be a major deciding factor in which Bayern star you look to secure.
Fabinho
Brazilian midfield anchor Fabinho is a shining light in the Liverpool midfield, with the 28-year-old not only able to break up play but also more than capable of scoring a worldie.
Versatile and in his prime, there's no better time to move for this established superstar.
Aurelien Tchouameni
France has plenty of star in its ranks and Tchouameni is one of the very best.
Moving from Monaco to Madrid this summer for major money will mean the 22-year-old is unavailable for now, but you'll want to be ready to swoop in if anything changes further down the line.
Bruno Guimaraes
Newcastle fans may not thank me for publicising it, but Bruno Guimaraes is a player that all top Premier League clubs should be looking at.
That being said, the Brazilian is raising the game for the Toon and could lead a Newcastle revolution, but could you tempt him away and make him a legend in Football Manager 2023?
Click here to find out the best central midfielders in Football Manager 2023.