Arsene Wenger and Arsenal believe there is nothing to be lost from Robin Van Persie going to Manchester United.
Except now the endless comments from a former Arsenal captain and someone who last year, rescued the side from free-fall.
Add to that the fact that Theo Walcott may be on his bike as well, given he has not yet signed a new contract, and Arsenal are looking at off-the-pitch issues, derailing their new buys.
The £22million Van Persie, who could make his debut at Everton on Monday, said: “Why United? They breathe football. The choice was made very soon in my mind.
"You look at all the players, the stadium, the manager — it’s all here.
“I think everyone knows me by now, I love football.
“It’s always difficult to find a perfect match but I think this is a perfect match for me.”
Walcott’s future, meanwhile, hangs in the balance.
Arsenal manager Wenger admitted: “We are still trying to extend his deal.”
Midfielder Alex Song is also said to be close to a £15million switch to Barcelona.
Wenger added: “When a player doesn’t want to stay you either force him or you let him go.”