So, finally, the transfer saga that has kept a small army of journalists busy over the past two years has finally come to a close - much thumb twiddling may now ensue following Cesc Fabregas' tortuous move from Arsenal to Barcelona.
We are, of course, not privy to the intricate details of the transfer but from what we can glean from the endless reels of news reports on the issue it is clear that both player and club have wanted the move for some time.
Credit to Wenger for holding onto his star midfielder for perhaps a year longer than most people expected, but with just over a fortnight to go until the close of the transfer window and a crucial Champions League qualifier imminent, why has the Gunners boss let this drag on so long?
For only now does Wenger (supposedly) have the funds to go out and bring in replacements. Though given his stubbornness to date don't be surprised if he brings in another batch of untried teenagers 'for the future'.
Their first live football of the season up at Newcastle on Saturday failed to convince me that any of their failings from last season had been addressed. They were easy on the eye as ever and had the bulk of the possession, but with Newcastle understandably defending in numbers the game often slowed down to walking pace.
They lacked that zip and drive needed to unlock the Magpies defence. On this evidence I wouldn't fancy their Premier League odds this season without significant reinforcements.
I'm sure Arsenal will tell you that the delay to the Fabregas deal was down to the club driving a hard bargain, hoping to get the best possible deal for the club. But by doing that they are also limiting the amount of time they have to bring in replacements. Other clubs will now see Wenger with a bucket load of Barca's cash and a clock rapidly ticking towards the deadline.
In teasing out a few extra million from Barca Wenger may now have to shell out more on replacements. Except that Wenger is at his most stubborn when it comes to spending cash, so will he be prepared to write some hefty cheques to plug the gaps in his creaking side?
I have my doubts.
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