Only a few weeks ago, Cristiano Ronaldo conducted an interview with The News of the World where he spelt out his desire to remain at Manchester United.
Reds chief executive David Gill insisted at the end of the season that the club had no intention of selling the World Player of the Year.
Sir Alex Ferguson angrily dismissed stories of a deal being arranged last summer to be concluded this year by famously saying he would not sell Real a virus.
For those who complain about speculation, it exists because the truth is rarely told in official circles.
Ronaldo wanted to leave last summer, threw a strop but went on to reach the Champions League final again and pick up another Premier League winner's medal.
It clearly was not enough and he has got his wish. The fact United claim a deal will be done before June 30 tallies with the long-standing reports in Spain that it was all set up last year, Ronaldo agreeing to stay another season as long as he got his move in the end.
Even the fee seems to have gone down from £90 million to £80 million but the Spanish sources were right all along.
So where does it leave United? Those same Spanish sources have been suggesting Antonio Valencia of Wigan Athletic has long been earmarked as the replacement.
If this is the case, the champions will have some trouble retaining their crown and the money needs to be invested, particularly if Carlos Tevez does not return either, as looks the case.
Franck Ribery would be ideal but seems less than enamoured with the prospect of living in England.
The Bayern Munich midfielder will not come cheaply and Barcelona are thought to be favourites to land him.
Another Frenchman, Karim Benzema, could be an exciting and attractive option but there is clearly some pressure on United to back up their claims to be the biggest club in the world.
Selling your star player to one of your main European competitors is not the way to go about supporting such a boast - at least David Beckham and Ruud van Nistelrooy went with Ferguson's full blessing. Comparisons with Eric Cantona's retirement are ridiculous - this is a departure that United have complied with, at their cost.
Many Premier League fans will say 'good riddance' to Ronaldo. A high proportion of United supporters will not mourn his departure because of his attitude.
But there is no disputing the fact that his exit will leave a massive, gaping hole in the United team.
When Beckham left, Ronaldo filled the number seven shirt he vacated. Who will Ferguson now look to in a bid to carry on the mantle?
Or are the rumours about the financial situation at Old Trafford set to have a major influence on any developments regarding the transfer market?
Valencia is an option in terms of the right side of midfield but United need a bigger name to soften the blow of losing their star man in terms of their support and worldwide standing.