Brexit talks in recent weeks have been dominated by numerous, anonymous “sources” briefing reporters in both the U.K. and on the continent about the perilous state of negotiations aimed at clinching a post-Brexit trade deal. Both sides have accused each other of being unwilling to compromise on key issues, with sticking points and “red lines” remaining over fishing rights, competition rules and the governance of any final deal. As British Prime Minister Boris Johnson prepares to travel to Brussels this week for face-to-face meetings with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, there is hope for a breakthrough. But in the meantime, officials on both sides continue to comment, loudly, on the efforts being made — and the remaining obstacles — before a deal can be reached.