Belgian-French winger Thibaud Verlinden, 26, told Het Nieuwsblad that there was recently a period of extensive contact with Ivan Leko. According to Verlinden's comments to the publication, the manager had wanted to bring him to AA Gent, but a move did not happen, and Verlinden stated that such outcomes are part of football. The Oud-Heverlee Leuven player joined the club in February 2025 and has a contract until June 2028. His current market value is €1.20m, according to Transfermarkt. In the 2025/2026 Jupiler Pro League season, Verlinden has 2 goals and 4 assists in 21 appearances. He has previously earned 14 caps for the Belgium U19 team.