Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood admits star striker Robin van Persie could be forced to quit the club if he is seeking a big-money contract.
The Dutchman is at the centre of speculation over his future, with just one year left to run on his current deal, and a number of top European clubs chasing his signature.
Manchester City, Real Madrid and Juventus are just three of the teams keen to sign the 28-year-old following his best season in the Premier League.
Van Persie bagged 30 league goals last term, often dominating the live in-play betting on next goalscorer, and finished as the Premier League's top marksmen.
Arsenal fans have seen key players regularly leave over the past few seasons, including Cesc Fabregas, Thierry Henry and Samir Nasri, and will be concerned that the same might happen again.
Arsene Wenger has stated he hopes to do all he can to try and keep the striker but financial restrictions may prevent the manager from keeping a hold of his star man.
Hill-Wood concedes that if money is the main consideration for the Gunners captain, then van Persie is likely to leave the Emirates.
The Arsenal chairman told the Sunday Mirror: "With players, you never know what they are going to do. He is vital to us and has been an extremely good captain.
"But if somebody comes along and offers Robin £250,000 a week then I am afraid we cannot compete with that."
Arsenal have already moved to bring in a new frontman this summer, with Germany international Lukas Podolski agreeing a deal with the Gunners.
Hill-Wood has been keen to point out that is likely to be more incomings at the Emirates, adding "I believe we will bring in more. I am confident we will, in fact."
It will be interesting to see if online bets placed before the start of the next Premier League season back Arsenal for success in 2012/13.
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