That is my worry too. I don't see the wallet being opened with a new flourish, anytime soon. I suspect Firmino is what we're getting. The idea being, that he will occupy defenders, Suarez style, work towards his release clause, and allow other lesser players to make hay. That's the best scenario, I suspect.
The loss of Sterling, for all his trouble making, may look like another huge setback, if the team we now have doesn't step up. Our two most valued players gone, in two seasons.
Let's hope Clyne can keep Sterling quiet when we play them.