The Trump administration is hopeful that an American pastor who is on trial in Turkey could be freed - possibly as early as Friday..

Media outlets reported that Andrew Brunson would be released in a deal with the US government - though the U.S, State Department did not confirm that Thursday.

Two administration officials tell Reuters that the situation is still fluid .

Brunson's imprisonment has dragged Turkey-US relations to an all time low, triggering U.S. sanctions and tariffs against Turkey and sparking a selloff in Turkey's currency.

The evangelical preacher has lived in Turkey for more than 20 years.

He's been held now for two years on terrorism charges and if convicted faces up to 35 years in jail.

News he might be released helped give some support to Turkey's lira on Thursday - which this summer hit a record low against the dollar.