China’s government on Monday sidestepped a question on US President Donald Trump’s recent claim that he “pretty much” has a deal with Beijing to bring TikTok into American ownership and that talks with China over the popular short-video app could begin early this week.

According to reports, Chinese President Xi Jinping is holding off on approving any sale until he can use TikTok as leverage in broader trade negotiations with the White House.

President Trump said he will begin talks with China in the coming days about a possible deal on the sale of TikTok.