Probably a move they make if they trade Kip that they are making sure to keep touching base on. Cubs and Indians have had conversations on players with each other every off season the last 3 or 4 years.
Keeping Jose at 2B isn't set in stone, because Kipnis not being on the roster isn't set in stone, and Kipnis playing OF if he stays isn't set in stone. Lot of stuff up in the air still.
Also...don't disregard what acquiring Baez, who is very close with Lindor, does for our chances in getting him to extend.