Tractor, one of the clubs in Iran’s Persian Gulf Pro League, has made an official offer to Turkish coach Ismail Kartal to take charge of the team, and negotiations between the two sides have begun, Turkish sports website Ajansspor reported.
Kartal, 65, resigned as Fenerbahçe coach on October 27, 2026, by mutual consent with the club’s management after pressure mounted following the defeat to Galatasaray in the derby. It was his fourth spell in charge of the club. The Turkish coach is well acquainted with Iranian football, having previously managed Persepolis.

Kartal is reportedly positive about returning to Iran and is expected to travel there soon to sign the contract if negotiations conclude successfully.
Tractor, based in the city of Tabriz, are fifth in the league with 20 points from 10 matches. They have recorded six wins, two draws and two defeats, scoring 12 goals and conceding five.