Manchester United know all about losing a marquee player - and the struggle of trying to replace them - having memorably sold Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid for a then-world record fee in 2009.
With the Portuguese sensation heading for Spain, in came Antonio Valencia, Michael Owen and Gabriel Obertan to try and fill the void. Have United ever truly recovered from that transfer disaster?
Perhaps those at Newcastle United are fearing a similar story, with free-scoring talisman Alexander Isak having outlined his desire to join Premier League champions, Liverpool. The Merseysiders have already seen a £110m bid rejected for the wantaway Swede.
For a side heading back into the Champions League, losing such a player would be a significant blow for the Magpies, with the 25-year-old having netted 44 league goals across the last two seasons combined.
Isak Premier League record
Described as "the most in-form striker" in the world by potential new teammate, Virgil van Dijk, an Isak exit would prove a real setback at St James' Park. Back at Old Trafford, meanwhile, Ruben Amorim could be facing his own transfer turmoil once again.
Manchester United star attracting Saudi interest
It has become evident who United are desperate to sell this summer, with Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Tyrell Malacia and Antony all forming part of the so-called 'bomb squad', having been exiled from Amorim's pre-season plans.
Antony-Man-Utd
In the case of Antony, the Brazilian has been touted for a return to Real Betis following last term's profitable loan adventure, although recent reports have indicated that he could also be in line for a reunion with the aforementioned Ronaldo at Saudi Arabian side, Al Nassr.
It isn't just whom Ronaldo and manager Jorge Jesus have their eye on, however, with Portuguese outlet A Bola reporting that the Pro League outfit are attempting to make their own approach for Red Devils skipper, Bruno Fernandes.
As per the report, it is claimed that talks have already taken place regarding a possible switch, with Jesus - who managed Fernandes at Sporting - keen to know if the 30-year-old would be keen on a reunion.
It remains to be seen whether that prior association with both Ronaldo and Jesus would encourage the playmaker to change his mind, having already turned down a lucrative move to Al Hilal earlier in the summer.
Bruno-Fernandes-Man-Utd
There was a debate at the time of that prior £80m interest as to whether such a sale would be worth considering for Amorim and co. As it was then, however, the answer should be no.
Why Man Utd must hold firm despite Saudi interest
Returning back to Isak for a moment, it is easy to see why Newcastle have remained firm on their desire to keep hold of the former Real Sociedad man so far. Indeed, last season saw him score 27 times in all competitions, with no other player on Tyneside even reaching double figures.
Isak-Newcastle-Premier-League (2)
That certainly has parallels to the importance of Fernandes back in Manchester, with the former Sporting CP star having led the way with 19 goals in all competitions - eight ahead of Garnacho and Amad in joint-second.
Described as "one of the top players in the world" by Amorim earlier this year, Fernandes also led the way with regard to assists, having chipped in with 19 across all fronts in 2024/25.
Again, only Garnacho and Amad reached double figures in that regard, although both men only reached ten assists - further highlighting just how remarkable a season it was for Fernandes on an individual basis.
Whether it's operating as part of the midfield two or as a number ten, United's captain is simply so influential, with former boss Erik ten Hag correct in his assertion that he is simply a "genius".
Most chances created in PL - 24/25
Player
Bruno Fernandes
Cole Palmer
Mohamed Salah
Enzo Fernandez
Bryan Mbeumo
Dejan Kulusevski
Martin Odegaard
Mikel Damsgaard
Leif Davis
Yourie Tielemans
Stats via Fotmob
Such quality has even been evident again this summer, as if anyone needed a reminder, with Fernandes scoring twice as United saw off West Ham United in the Premier League summer series, a brace that included a stunning strike from range.
The manner in which the £300k-per-week midfielder almost passed the ball into the roof of the net with next to no backlift helped to once again rubberstamp his unique qualities.
Indeed, much like those of a Newcastle persuasion would feel if they receive their £150m valuation for Isak, how do you go about replacing such a superstar talent?
There might come a time when this United side eventually outgrows Fernandes, or even begins to break free from his influence, but heading into 2025/26, they remain a better team with him at the helm.
bruno-fernandes-united (2)
Much like it would be a disaster for the Magpies to lose Isak with the new season just a matter of weeks away, the Red Devils simply can't afford to sanction their own high profile exit.