Arsenal winger Robert Pires has revealed that Patrick Vieira has already decided on a move to Real Madrid.
Pires' admission came as Arsene Wenger gave Vieira until this weekend to make an announcement on his future plans amid continued interest from the Spanish club.
Although Vieira has made no public statement about his plans so far this summer, Pires would appear to have already conceded that his friend is set to leave Highbury.
The Arsenal winger admitted: "His sale will leave a huge void in the middle of our side, but we can adapt to a life without his leadership.
"All the players wanted Patrick to stay. But he's made a choice and we respect that. We can all understand why he's decided to go to La Liga.
"I'd just wish him all the luck in the world at the Bernabeu."
Pires' comments, which appeared in Scotland's Sunday Herald newspaper, were reported by the author of his autobiography, Xavier Rivoire, a respected French journalist.
Two potential stumbling-blocks still remain - Arsenal may still hold out for rather more than Real are prepared to offer in a transfer fee and Vieira has yet to agree personal terms in Spain.
Indeed, reports have indicated that the Spanish club's opening offer to the midfielder was well short of what the existing 'galacticos' earn.
However, the move looks increasingly likely and Pires' comments are the most revealing indication yet of the potential next chapter in the ongoing saga.