Trabzonspor reach preliminary agreement with Ludogorets manager Thomas Reis

Trabzonspor have reached a preliminary agreement with Thomas Reis, the German manager of Bulgarian club Ludogorets, to take charge of the Turkish side, according to 61saat.

Reis is expected to arrive in Trabzon on Tuesday to complete the final details of the deal before officially assuming responsibility for the team. Negotiations made significant progress in recent hours, with an initial agreement now in place between the manager and the club.

HT Spor reported that Trabzonspor will pay Ludogorets the value of Reis’ release clause to secure his appointment. The club’s private jet has reportedly departed for the Bulgarian city of Varna to collect the German coach.

Reis could take charge of Trabzonspor for the first time in their match against Galatasaray next Saturday.

The report added that Reis is expected to sign a one-year contract, with an option to extend the agreement for a further season.

Trabzonspor are seeking a new head coach following the departure of Fatih Tekke, who left his position at the club.

Reis has been working with Hossam Abdelmaguid since the defender joined Ludogorets from Zamalek in the summer. The German manager is therefore already familiar with the Egypt international.

Stefano Pioli talks had advanced

Turkish reports on Monday had indicated that negotiations between Trabzonspor and Stefano Pioli had reached an advanced stage.

The Italian had reportedly moved ahead of the other candidates for the role, although no official contract had been signed. Those reports said Pioli was viewed as the leading option by 90%.

Pioli’s attacking ideas were said to suit the qualities of Trabzonspor forward Mohamed Salah, particularly his movement from the right wing into central areas, his runs behind defenders and his effectiveness inside the penalty area.

The latest reports, however, indicate that Trabzonspor have now made progress with Reis, who remains under contract at Ludogorets.