Lee Johnson says there 'is a will at both ends' to resolve Denver Hume's future at Sunderland.
The academy product was offered a new contract when his previous deal expired this summer, but as yet he has not committed his future to the club.
Johnson wants the 22-year-old to stay, but says there is still a 'gap' between the two parties.
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Sunderland would be looking to recruit another left-back this summer in any case, as cover for Hume, but would need a second if he left Wearside.
"We need another left-back anyway, no matter what happens with Denver - you always want two for every position," said Johnson.
"At the moment the state of play is just that there is no agreement in place.
"I think there's a will there at both ends, but at the same time there is a bit of a gap.
"He's not quite on the open market because we are able to get compensation, but effectively he is open to offers.
"It's been a bit of a sticky one either way, but we are hopeful of a resolution either way relatively shortly."
Hume is still receiving treatment for a hamstring problem at the Academy of Light, and has been unable to train at all in pre-season.
Johnson said: "Denver is still injured after his hamstring operation, but he's getting treatment with us so he is still in our building, if you like.
"I'm sure it's frustrating for him at times, but all you can do at these times as a coach or a technical director or a club, is be open and honest with a player.
"We don't always agree, but at the same time I think both parties respect the openness and the honesty."
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