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Toronto FC signs young Brazilian defender Auro on initial loan

Toronto FC signed former Brazil youth international defender Auro on loan from Sao Paulo on Tuesday.

The MLS club also has an option to buy the 22-year-old on a permanent basis at the end of the season.

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

Auro, whose full name is Auro Alvaro da Cruz Junior, made 34 appearances over three years for Sao Paulo while also playing on loan for Atletico Linense and America-MG.

He previously played for Brazil's national teams at both the under-17 and under-20 levels.