In the eyes of Manchester City's critics, the Blues always have and always will get their blank checkbook out in the transfer market, in order to keep up their squad with two world-class XIs available at any time.
Or something like that. While City have undoubtedly spent money, the reality - especially in recent seasons - is the opposite of the lazy stereotypes thrown against their name.
The Blues made a profit in the transfer market last summer, and could potentially do so again this year, underlining the importance of the academy and transfer department.
Mateo Kovacic is the sole arrival this summer so far, with Josko Gvardiol a target to bolster the defence. Ilkay Gundogan has left on a free transfer, under-21 captain Shea Charles has joined Southampton, while Riyad Mahrez, James Trafford and Carlos Borges look set to follow them out of the Etihad door. ALSO READ: West Ham working on deal to sign City prospect Carlos Borges As it stands, City have bought Kovacic for £25m (rising to £30m with add-ons), and sold Charles for £10.5m (rising to £15m).