Gent manager Jess Thorup has offered a transfer update on the future of Jonathan David amid links with Leeds United.
Marcelo Bielsa's men have reportedly taken 'concrete steps' in their bid to sign David but face stiff competition.
The 20-year-old forward is believed to prefer a move to France but the Daily Telegraph are reporting that the Whites are making significant progress.
Thorup has spoken about the transfer speculation surrounding David in an interview with Belgian media.
"I had a long conversation with Jonathan beforehand," said Thorup, via Google Translate. “We all know that something is going on. There is no decision yet, but as a coach I would like to know where we stand.
"Is it still possible that he still plays for us? Then I want to see him in action with a view to the competition start. Mentally he was not ready now, because there are many things going on.
"But if there is no decision on Saturday, I want to give him minutes against Zulte Waregem. We'll have to watch it day by day.
"I understand that Jonathan thinks about the risks when he plays. When in doubt, watch out for injuries. That's why I preferred to take no risks so far for Jonathan and the club. We also need to see what we can do without him. ”
The US-born Canadian international is said to be worth €35million (£31.7million).
