It's the transfer saga that could yet define Arsenal's summer, and now manager Mikel Arteta has made a telling statement over the club's pursuit of Declan Rice.
The West Ham captain has been the Spaniard's primary target this summer, but getting a deal over the line has proved anything but simple. The Gunners have had two big-money bids rejected, with their London rivals demanding a fee in the region of £100million.
And another huge obstacle is looming. Treble winners Manchester City have also entered the race to sign the England international, and with their financial power, are unlikely to be deterred by a three-figure fee as they seek to replace captain Ilkay Gundogan.
In an interview with Marca, Arteta refused to disclose details on his pursuit of Rice, but may have also inadvertently revealed where the club were at with their transfer targets. Asked if the player was worth the fee demanded, he replied: "I can't talk about players who are not in the club. I prefer not to say anything."
Tellingly however, he was prepared to open up on Kai Havertz, who is seemingly closing in on a £65m move to the Emirates after an indifferent season at Chelsea: "Talent comes at a price, and at Arsenal we are always interested in youngsters with experience," added the Spaniard.
"I repeat, I'm not talking about players from other clubs, but in the case of Kai he has already shown a lot, including a Champions League. He is a talented player, versatile and only 24 years old."
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The fact Arteta claimed he would not speak about players not at his club, but was happy to talk about Havertz, suggests a deal to sign the German star is essentially done. However, the lack of apparent confidence over signing Rice, despite the 24-year-old seemingly preferring a move across the English capital, would have been noted by fans.
City are yet to officially table a bid for Rice, but Etihad chiefs are reportedly preparing to make their move. And even if Havertz comes through the door, the number of outgoings in Arsenal's squad will mean their manager will have to search elsewhere if the West Ham captain ends up in Manchester.
Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka are both seemingly heading out of the club, while the future of Jorginho is also up in the air. Eddie Nketiah is also considering a move away, fearing the arrival of Havertz will further limit his first-team opportunities.
