All signs point to the exit door for our young captain. We all knew this day would come, and whatever Peter Hill-Wood states in terms of Arsenal not being prepared to sell, you don't have to be a genius to suggest we are looking to get the highest price available for our star asset with anything between £40 and £50 million being the desired amount.

Arsenal fans have come to expect this every summer. It is at this point we look inwards as well as externally to see how the club can move forward. So let’s have a look at both scenarios.

Internally

The 4-3-3 was built around Cesc, which could be one of the reasons we were not very good at it when Fabregas was injured. Nasri is the obvious choice to fill the role in the middle, perhaps Arshavin also. The former has played the role this season to varying effect. It also gives the likes of Wilshere, Emmanuel Thomas and Lansbury the chance to stake a claim next season after very successful loan spells.

The problem with this is that Arsenal fans have been down this road before, while our young players have much promise, it is unlikely at this stage in their career they will be able to win us the silverware we so desperately require. The one player who could have stepped in and filled Cesc's boots is currently out injured. It is still open to debate whether Ramsey can return and be the same player he was - much like Eduardo. So perhaps a return to 4-4-2 or even 4-2-1-2-1.

Externally

£35m plus lets say £45m for Cesc will give us £80m in the kitty. But let’s not get excited, there is little chance Wenger will spend all the money received. Especially with clubs who know we have cash to spend who in turn bump up the price of our targets. Remember after Anelka's departure in 1999 much of the money was spent on rebuilding the training ground. However the club must use a significant amount to reinvest in the squad. The cracks are there for all to see, a reliable goalie, a central defender to replace Gallas, a midfielder to help out Song, and possibly one more squad player in the ilk of a Grimandi.

As far as direct replacements for Cesc, there is no such thing, but the likes of Mata, Silva, or even Arteta would be welcome.

There is much to be done, but with our improved financial situation due to a reduced debt burden, along with a windfall from the reluctant sale of Cesc, now is the time to refurbish the squad wisely so we can push for silverware next season.