Toronto FC signs Brazilian left back Matheus Pereira from Portugal’s Santa Clara

A general view of BMO Field as the game presentation is displayed before Toronto FC play Nashville SC in MLS soccer action in Toronto, Wednesday, June 19, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Mark Blinch

TORONTO — Toronto FC has signed Brazilian left back Matheus Pereira from Portuguese side CD Santa Clara through the 2027-28 MLS season, with a club option for 2028-29.

The 25-year-old, who can also play on the wing, joined Santa Clara in July 2024 and went on to make a combined 49 appearances in all competitions.

Pereira will likely join Canadian international Richie Laryea at Toronto’s first-choice fullback pairing.

Laryea, a former TFC designated player who made $1.17 million (all figures in U.S. dollars) last season, can play both sides and did everything when healthy for TFC last season, also playing at wingback, centre back and midfielder for Toronto.

Laryea, when not playing on the right side, joined Raoul Petretta and 22-year-old Kobe Franklin in spending time at left back last season for TFC. Toronto opted not to exercise the 2026 contract option on Petretta, a 28-year-old German-born Italian who made $854,750 last season, according to the MLS Players Association.

Franklin earned $135,800 in 2025.

A native of São Paulo, Pereira came up through the youth ranks of Brazil’s Cruzeiro, making his pro debut as a 19-year-old in August 2020.

“Matheus is a competitive, attack-minded left back who has the versatility to also contribute further up the flank,” Toronto GM Jason Hernandez said in a statement. “His acceleration, running capacity and final delivery will be important for us as we look to balance our effectiveness on both sides of the pitch. We are excited to begin working with Matheus and look forward to welcoming him to our city.”

The five-foot-eight 148-pounder made a combined 61 appearances across all competitions for Cruzeiro and also spent time in 2022 on loan to lower-tier Brazilian side Guarani Futebol Clube, where he had three goals and two assists in 26 appearances across all competitions.

Prior to Santa Clara, Pereira scored five goals and added four assists in 57 appearances with Portuguese second-tier side FC Vizela after joining the club in 2022.

Pereira is not to be confused with his namesake, 29-year-old Brazilian international midfielder Matheus Pereira, who also plays for Cruzeiro.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 29, 2025

Neil Davidson, The Canadian Press