For a healthy proportion of Tottenham supporters, news of the snag in the club's proposed deal for Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson was celebrated.
However, for those not particularly keen to acquire a past-his-best left-back for big wages this month, there's still a chance that you're left disappointed.
The reported Robertson to Spurs deal came out of nowhere last week. Bereft of experienced heads and leaders, the hierarchy pivoted to the 31-year-old Scot in the wake of Ben Davies' devastating injury, one that might call time on his Tottenham career.
While the two-time Premier League champion would supply Thomas Frank's squad with the necessary intangibles, many regarded the potential deal as further evidence that those in charge have little idea of the squad's current needs. Sure, Davies' injury left a vacancy behind the brittle Destiny Udogie, but Spurs are woefully short in attack and still without a passer in midfield.
And while it doesn't look like the Robertson deal is going ahead as planned, there's still a chance the left-back winds up in N17 at some point.
Tottenham could still sign Andy Robertson before end of January window
Robertson's contract is up in the summer, so Tottenham were only willing to send Liverpool £5m for the Scot's services this month. An agreement in principle was struck, and it looked like the left-back would join the club after bidding farewell to the Anfield faithful in the Champions League on Wednesday night.
However, BBC Sport are among those to report that Robertson's proposed move is now unlikely.
Liverpool, who would've left themselves short at the position, were hoping to recall Kostas Tsimikas from Roma to provide mitigation, but they haven't been able to do so. There's no recall clause in the Greek's loan, and the Serie A side haven't yet signed cover.
While Robertson isn't believed to be pushing to leave Merseyside this winter, Liverpool may still be willing to sanction is sale if Roma get a hold of a Tsimikas replacement. In that scenario, a chain of events could lead to the 31-year-old joining Spurs before the transfer deadline on 2 February.
Still, Arne Slot is confident Robertson will remain with the club until his contract expires: "It is hard to say anything definite in this world we are in, but I expect him to [stay at Liverpool]."
I don't suspect he'll have a bunch of Europe's elite chasing him this summer, so Spurs could yet attain Robertson on a free transfer at the end of the season. For now, though, it's time to refocus on the proper market priorities.