The Dutch wingman is believed to have agreed personal terms with Real Madrid in the region of £85k a week.
Chelsea publically state that Robben is still a Chelsea player and expect him to line-up for Chelsea's Community Shield match on Sunday against Manchester United.
However a niggling injury could yet prevent the player turning out on the fabled green grass.
It's common practice for a player who is about to move clubs not to play for fear of injury and the deal falling apart. But that is surely not the situation in this case - is it?
Robben, if he was offered £90k per week, would committ himself to a new contract at Stamford Bridge.
And it appears to be Chelsea's reluctance to offer him that amount which is giving Real Madrid optimism that he will sign for the Spanish champions.
All have to be resolved before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.