At one point, Chelsea were prepared to pay an eight-figure sum for Cheick Tiote but United opted to keep him.
Since then he has tried many ties to leave the club, and his contract is up in the summer.
We all know what he can do - it's just that we never get to see it!
While Tiote has had his moments since, few would say that approach has worked in hindsight. His contributions have diminished and while he was a lively presence at the tail end of last season, he has barely started this year.
Rafa Benitez has promised to utilise him this year if he stays, saying he has looked good in training.
But the chances of him staying beyond this season are miniscule.