The 22-year-old is available on a free transfer after being released by Sunderland at the end of last season after failing to make a first-team appearance at the Stadium of Light.
Reed has built up plenty of experience in the Football League, though, after taking in loan spells at Portsmouth and York City last season.
He has also previously enjoyed stints at Brentford, Bradford City and Leyton Orient, and could now find a home in League Two with Burton.
Brewers boss Gary Rowett is looking to build a squad capable of mounting another promotion challenge after losing in the play-offs to Bradford last term.
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