Major League Soccer chiefs have turned down an offer - thought to be from Preston - for American striker Taylor Twellman.
North End are believed to have had an initial bid of around £800,000 rejected for the New England Revolution frontman, but are contemplating returning with an improved offer.
Revolution director Mike Burns confirmed a bid for the striker had been turned down, but also stated the club were hopeful of retaining Twellman's services after he recently signed a four-year contract extension.
He told the Boston Globe: "The league has refused an offer for Taylor.
"To my knowledge, they have not received a secondary offer, so I can't comment on that.
"Taylor just re-signed a long-term contract with the league, so it would have to be a situation where it made sense for everyone.
"But we are not looking to lose Taylor. It would be very difficult to replace him."