Soccer

TFC signs Brazilian defender 'Auro' from Sao Paulo FC on loan

Toronto FC signed defender Auro Alvaro da Cruz Junior on loan Tuesday.

22-year-old is a 'versatile' player, says GM Tim Bezbatchenko

Auro, right, has made a combined 34 appearances in Brazil's Serie A and Campeonato Paulista leagues over three seasons with Sao Paulo FC. (Alexandre Schneider / Getty Images)

Toronto FC signed defender Auro Alvaro da Cruz Junior on loan Tuesday.

The deal will take the 22-year-old Brazilian player, who's known simply as "Auro," from the Brazilian club Sao Paulo FC with an option to buy.

Auro has represented Brazil at both the U-17 and U-20 championships.

He's also made a combined 34 appearances in Brazil's Serie A and Campeonato Paulista leagues over three seasons with Sao Paulo FC.

"Auro is a young and versatile defender that will provide us with flexibility within our line-up, both on the left and right side," said Toronto FC General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko. "We are pleased to bring him in on a loan deal with an option to buy for the future."