It isn't really an either/or question. Up until now we've been mostly seen as a collective of over-achievers and, Spurs reported interest in King on the back of his hot streak aside, have never had to deal with the attentions of one of the genuinely big clubs.
However Ake, and possibly L Cook, both feel like players that could start getting the behemoths circling.
With the best will in the world, if a CL class team in England wants them they're likely to want to go. Not just for the money but for the genuine chance to win something every year and play in the biggest competitions.
In that case we can't really begrudge it and it's about getting the best deal for us. That doesn't mean rolling over and accepting the first bid because the player wants the move. Hold out for the best money we can then reluctantly accept.
Spending all that fee on transfers would seem to be a mistake when the club has other needs. Even Arsene had to cut his cloth for many years in this scenario. It doesn't make us tinpot, just prudent. Many other clubs have done the same down the years.
Sure, give EH a big slice to find a replacement but building the training ground or getting the stadium rolling would bring genuine long term benefits for the club.
EH may not be able to find an instant as-good-as replacement for £20-25 million but we aren't really shopping in that store anyway.
